Rich Paul’s Viral Slip-up Seen as “Leverage Play,” Similar to LeBron’s Mind Game to Push JJ Redick as Lakers’ Coach

LeBron James to free agency? According to Rich Paul, it might very well be the case. Joining TNT’s AltCast to cover the Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves battle, the Klutch Sports Founder might have made a mistake. With Bron stating an ultimatum on his future after the Lakers’ early end to the season, Paul’s slip-up proved costly. However, a few critical minds think otherwise.

“Look, LeBron’s a free agent … I gotta focus on his business, and he should be focused on his business, and let the Lakers hire whoever they wanna hire. And he’s always showed up and played for whatever coach is there,” Rich had said. Interestingly, Gil’s Arena crew does not think it was, indeed, a mistake. They all agree in one voice that Paul is a very intelligent man, in effect, saying that he wouldn’t be prone to mistakes like the one above.

Rashad McCants seems to have an idea of what actually went down. “That’s a leverage play, just like the podcast was a leverage play,” he said, referring to LeBron and JJ Redick’s Mind The Game. McCants was astonished at how the Laker could simply start a brand new podcast smack in the middle of the season without so much as a Hello.

Kenyon Martin joined the 39-year-old in ripping Bron apart. “Let’s show your coaching acumen JJ … let’s show the people you know the terminologies … But let’s not tell people that we gave you the definitions beforehand,” Martin said. Everyone tuned into their pod, but as soon as Ham was fired, the whole initiative seemed like a smokescreen for many.

Especially given James’ controversial reputation as the “Coach Killer,” it was easy to assume the worst. However, we should not forget what the ‘Akron Hammer’ said about the factors that would go into his decision.

LeBron James “doesn’t know” what he’s going to do, amidst all the widespread chaos

The exit interviews after the playoff exit significantly bolstered the credibility of LeBron’s retirement rumors. His free agency and player option were the talk of the town since Los Angeles spiraled to a lackluster season. However, James seemed to have had enough of people speculating and deciding for him so the 39-year-old took to X to share his side of the story.

“I do not know yet as I’m only thinking about spending time with my family & friends! When I know after speaking with the fam, my counsel, as well as my representation about it, then you guys will know.” 

The 20x All-Star hasn’t spoken a word since this tweet. Regardless, it didn’t stop the trade rumors. Analysts and pundits were still busy looking at the best options for LeBron James, who continues to put up elite performances and create historical records at 39. In fact, Bronny’s entry into the Combine only served to accelerate them.

It was in this situation that Rich Paul made the free agent statement on live TV. Whether it was truly a slip-up or leverage is yet to be understood. What do you think of McCants’ take? Was Rich Paul being intentionally unintentional? Or did he just get caught in the flow and make a mistake?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Before you go, another matter foremost in our mind is about our beloved Inside the NBA crew. While many are sure they are going to be disbanded, Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, thinks otherwise. To know more, watch this video.