Over the years, LeBron James has gained the reputation of acting as a general manager behind the scenes. As one of the NBA's most successful players, James has the clout to recruit star teammates and influence franchise decisions.
James' agent, Klutch Sports Group CEO Rich Paul, is likely to have insights that his superstar client doesn't share with the public. On a recent episode of Game Over with Max Kellerman and Rich Paul, Paul made a suggestion that would impact James and the Los Angeles Lakers.
Paul proposed a hypothetical trade centered around Austin Reaves and Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr. The agent explained that Jackson could serve as an anchor for a Lakers team building around Luka Doncic.
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In pursuit of his fifth NBA championship, there has been speculation over whether Paul's idea is an echo of James' own. Their business relationship stretches back over a decade, following a friendship that began back in 2003.
The 21-time All-Star told ESPN that his agent's views don't reflect his.
“I think you all know by now, Rich is his own man and what Rich says is not a direct reflection of me and how I feel,” said James. “And I hope people know that. I hope people know that and if they’re not sensible to know that, then I don’t know what to tell them.”
At 24-14, the Lakers hold the fifth spot in the Western Conference standings. With a dynamic duo of MVP candidate Doncic and James, Los Angeles has the potential to make a serious playoff push.
After the shocking departure of Anthony Davis in 2025, the Lakers could benefit from adding an All-Star caliber big man. This season, Jackson is averaging 18.5 points and 5.6 rebounds over 37 games.
James' two-year, $104 million contract extension expires at the end of the 2025-2026 season. He is set to join the free agent market this summer.
While James has not confirmed whether he intends to remain with the Lakers or continue playing with a different NBA franchise, Los Angeles is likely to focus its future decisions around Doncic. Still, James is a leading voice for the time being.
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