AROUND the NBA:

[omahen]

they're talking about an article posted today by Ramona and Windhorst, I believe, and apparently we were right about LeBron not being offered his customary 1+1, and there have been some other things he's been left out of recently, too. I don't think this is going to be a very fun year to be a Lakers fan. 

https://youtu.be/EMLFnHtqgck?si=EIuEgeRE05duIz5w

How much fun the season will be, it all depends on ones expectations. Personally, I always looked at this season as a gap year for them. I think it was very clear and logical that they will transition from LeBron to Luka, as otherwise Luka would likely walk sooner than later. He will not waste his prime years waiting for LeBron to retire. Lakers have less and less chance to be good each year LeBron has a max deal. Of course, it will be very difficult for them to replace LeBron and become a contender. But, at least they have a chance this way. I always thought Luka will give them two years to build a contender or he demands a trade. He didn't asked to be on Lakers and they have to deliver.

My expectation for the season for them was to give one last try while preparing for post LeBron years. They are not the best, but they are not bad either. I could see them make some noise, if things go right. If not, I would not be dissapointed. It is about the years after this season and things they will do. 

I can understand LeBron ego is hurt, it is natural. However, it is not clear how much it really is hurt and what he will do because of it. Realistically, he can't expect to be the main cog wherever he goes at this age. No one will give up everything to bet on a 40 year old delivering the title. Important thing - most of the things pointing at Luka being the main guy for Lakers happened before LeBron decided to pick up his option. If he would be so unhappy with the current situation, he could always decline his option and walk wherever he wanted to. It was his decision to stay with a team that is prioritizing another player. Who knows, perhaps a deal materializes that would make everyone happy - Lakers getting at least something while not hurting long term team building, LeBron going to a contender and the contender not giving up half their team to make it work. But, it is a longshot. I still believe LeBron will stay after declaring how good moves Lakers made and how he is looking forward for one last try. Or, he will declare this is his last season and Lakers will give him a farewell tour season.

Btw, I found the article very good. I think they nicely stated the issues from all relevant parties and it is not sensationalistical (I hope the word makes any sense  ) at all. Only the aggregates of this article are.

LeBron James to Luka Doncic - Inside the most delicate superstar transition in NBA history for Los Angeles Lakers - ESPN