SO WHAT will happen now to those long-time Laker fans dating back to the 80s who hate Lebron with a passion?
Will they welcome him and let bygones be bygones? After all it’s not like Lebron has something nasty going on with the Lakers.
Or will they reluctantly let him in to their fold subject to the caveat that he has to prove himself by winning a championship?
4 YEARS. The tenure in the contract says it all. Lebron didnt sign for a short term deal but is probably intending to end his career in LA.
If you read between the lines you can decipher that the master plan concocted between him and Magic Johnson involved a transition period where they can segue into a championship team.
Remember this is the Western Conference where not only will they be eventually expected to run into the defending champions Golden State Warriors but also square off against powerhouse teams like Golden State Warriors, San Antonio Spurs and the OKC Thunder.
Lebron will need key pieces in the roster to achieve his plan winning another championship for himself and for LA.
TEAMMATES. With Lebron’s style of play he will need some spot up shooters. The King likes to bring up the ball, drive to the basket if there’s an open lane or kick it out to an open shooter if he gets double-teamed.
He also needs a talented playmaker playing alongside him in the mold of a Dwayne Wade or Kyrie Irving who can carry the load and make or create some plays.
The acquisition of Rajon Rondo makes a lot of sense. He is a do-it-all veteran with championship experience. He will also fill the gap while the Lakers are re-tooling around Lebron to make the current iteration instantly competitive.
Lance Stephenson can be a vital cog in the system. He’s tough, plays great defense and shoots well. Javale Mcgee provides inside presence and also championship experience.
If these veterans can mesh well with their current brood of young guns such as Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma and Brandon Ingram, this team is instantly a top 5 team in the West.
But they really need those shooters.
VERBATIM. “The guy hits hard. But I feel like we have prepared for everything he can bring to the table.”- Daniel Cormier on fighting Stipe Miocic at UFC 226 today. (www.express.co.uk)
LAST ROUND. It’s on Dr Jazzy Gorne who celebrated her birthday last Saturday. Cheers!