As the ongoing debate regarding the necessity for significant changes to the Los Angeles Lakers’ roster at the NBA trade deadline gains momentum, LeBron James succinctly conveyed his perspective when questioned on the matter.
“I don’t play fantasy basketball,” James remarked, as reported by Ryan Ward of Lakers Nation.
Although James’ comment garnered considerable attention, he went on to elaborate, expressing his disdain for contemplating what the Lakers “need” or “lack,” deeming such discussions as “disrespectful.”
“I focus on the individuals here, in this uniform, who show up to work every day,” James explained further, as conveyed by Ward. “It’s too disrespectful to think about what we need or what we don’t have. I don’t do that to my teammates.”
Reflecting on the team’s recent performance, James emphasized the importance of concentrating on the present and the collective effort of the current roster.
“We’ve been putting in the work, and that’s what we have to continue to do. We like the way we’ve been playing the last couple of games. We have to continue that Friday versus Brooklyn,” concluded James.
James’ response aligns with a leadership role he has assumed for the Lakers, adopting a mindset that focuses on the positive aspects of the team’s recent achievements. Despite lingering uncertainties surrounding the Lakers, including potential trade targets like Zach LaVine from the Chicago Bulls and Dejounte Murray from the Atlanta Hawks, the team has shown improvement, securing back-to-back wins and triumphing in four of the last six games.
As the February 8 trade deadline approaches, speculation persists about the Lakers’ possible moves. While the prospect of acquiring players like LaVine or Murray remains uncertain, it appears unlikely that General Manager Rob Pelinka and the Lakers’ front office will choose to remain inactive.
