Kevin Garnett seems skeptical about LeBron James‘ reaction. Once done with double-checking, the rumors of the trade involving Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis hit people hard. It seems Bron was just as shocked as the rest of the NBA world. The 4x NBA champ reportedly claimed that he wasn’t aware of the trade. However, Garnett isn’t buying it.

Taking to his Instagram story, the Celtics legend wrote a very specific message related to the rumored Lakers trade.

“Bron lyyyyyyyyyyynnn Ofcourse he knew..had to sign off on it..simple!!! NBA biz,” Garnett said. His message seemingly hints that James, who is a significant force in the franchise, was probably aware of the deal. But was he? 

As per an Instagram post from Hooper, James found out about the deal while he was out for dinner with his family, and that was after the Lakers’ 128-112 win over the Knicks. “James was surprised by the news, is processing it and had no idea it was in the works,” the comment on the post read.

This big shocker in the Western Conference involves the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks, and Utah Jazz.

As per ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Lakers reportedly traded Davis to receive Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris. Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick were sent to the Mavericks. Meanwhile, the Jazz received Jalen Hood-Schifino, a 2025 Clippers second-round pick, and a 2025 Mavericks second-round pick. 

This was so shocking that it caused many, including Tyrese Haliburton, to think that Charania’s account had been hacked. But it also wasn’t just Garnett. Many thought James knew about this big trade. At this point, Kendrick Perkins came to his rescue.

Kendrick Perkins defended LeBron James

The ESPN analyst Perkins took to his X handle to defend James. Speaking about the trade, he explained that it was likely a quick and tightly guarded process, and LeBron James might not have known about it. In fact, a national reporter even claimed that the ‘Akron Hammer’ was “frustrated with A.D.” And that was the reason this shocking trade happened. 

“Braun ain’t know a damn thing about this trade. Rich Paul probably ain’t even know about this trade until it happens. Man, stop playing,” Perkins said.

He further added that James’ agent Rich Paul, who also represents Davis, wasn’t involved in it. He added, “AD is represented by Rich Paul. Braun is represented by Rich Paul. You think Rich Paul will approve that without hollering at that? Man, that don’t go down like that. Man, stop playing.” 

He also defended the Mavericks, as many criticized them for mishandling the situation. He added that the Mavericks made a great deal by choosing Davis, who will be paired with Kyrie Irving, while he questioned the Los Angeles Lakers‘ decision to pair James and Doncic.

However, Perkins’ explanation doesn’t seem to help, as James continues to battle several accusations on social media.