Lakers Ran A Temperature Test On LeBron James’ Loyalty, Claims ESPN’s “Untouchable” Employee

During the NBA trade deadline, the Golden State Warriors revealed an ambitious bid to acquire Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James. Because of that, the Warriors and Lakers’ trade talks were kept a secret with the owners of both clubs negotiating at the last minute before the deadline. Warriors owner Joe Lacob started the process by calling up the Lakers owner Jeanie Buss to inquire about the potential of dealing for James. However, Buss immediately dismissed the idea of dealing with James, declaring that the Lakers had no plans to part ways with their best player. She, however, encouraged Lacob to speak with James’ agent, Rich Paul, who confirmed to them that James wished to stay a Laker.

This prospective deal, initially reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski and Ramona Shelburne, sent shockwaves across the league and left fans wondering what may happen. However, one of the most credible NBA Insiders, Brian Windhorst, spoke about this trade and gave his insights on ESPN’s show. Windhorst, popularly called “Windy” has the most number of insider scoops about all things NBA, and because of that Shaquille O’Neal also calls him “untouchable”. This potential trade, between Warriors and King James is no exception.

ESPN’s untouchable employee reveals the truth behind the Bron trade talk

Brian Windhorst spoke about this deal on the show “Get Up” saying, “If you are a fan, your initial reaction is going to be to dream about the concept of LeBron & Steph playing together. I don’t think that was ever close to happening, but I think it shows a lack of information from these teams”. He further went on to say that the way things have been going on for the Lakers this season and the “passive-aggressive moves” made by James left the NBA world wondering if he actually wants to stick with them.

However, even after all that, James’ agent Rich Paul confirmed publically that the Akron Hammer is committed to staying with the Lakers. So, according to Windy’s analysis, this trade was “more about checking in on an information void that if it was a trade that could actually happen.” Because the Lakers were testing James’ loyalty by letting the teams have a chat with him and after he reconfirmed his commitment toward them, they did not make any hasty moves at the end of the trade deadline.

Read More: Warriors Failed To Secure LeBron James Trade – 3 Surprising Details From NBA’s Latest Rumor

However, there is still a chance for the teams to persuade James as he had signed a contract extension in 2022 and has a player option for the 2024-25 season. With the looks of things currently, he is expected to stay with the Lakers this offseason. But if the Lakers’ performance does not improve, the L-Train can easily switch his tracks as he has a lot of options.

So, what do you think? Will James take the easy way out and join forces with his rival Stephen Curry to fulfill his dream of achieving the 5th ring? Let us know in the comments below.

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