<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/stephen-a-smith-has-terrible-news-for-lebron-and-the-lakers-20230526-BUS-3853.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230526_BUS_3853_lebron-james-anthony-davis-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="LeBron James surpassed every single expectation he had when he entered the league in the legendary 2003 NBA Draft. Still, some people expected him to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to another ring in year 20. Not many 38-year-olds would be able to withstand a 38-minute basketball game, let alone in the NBA. So, why […]
" title="Stephen A. Smith has terrible news for LeBron and the Lakers" publication_id="BUS#20230526#BUS#3853"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-admits-incredible-wrong-call-against-lebron-james-and-lakers-in-game-4-vs-nuggets-20230525-BUS-3812.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230525_BUS_3812_lebronjames-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="An official report from the NBA confirms a crucial mistake against the Lakers and LeBron James in Game 4 with the Nuggets. Read here to check out the details.
" title="NBA admits wrong call by officials could have cost series to LeBron James and Lakers" publication_id="BUS#20230525#BUS#3812"></div>


The season ended in a very bad way for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a>. They reached the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba-playoffs">Western Conference Finals</a> as the N°7 seed in a bit of a surprise, but then they were swept by the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a> in a clear way.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> played at a really high level in the playoffs. He even almost averaged a triple double against the Nuggets in Lakers’ big loss, although he did so while playing through a foot injury. Now he will have a decision to make in the offseason.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-doesnt-want-a-lakers-player-back-next-season-20230525-BUS-3755.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230525_BUS_3755_lebron-james-7.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Following a disappointing postseason, LeBron James might not be high on one of his teammates as he enters free agency.
" title="LeBron James doesn&apos;t want a Lakers player back next season" publication_id="BUS#20230525#BUS#3755"></div>


The King might need surgery to repair <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Lakers-dodge-a-massive-bullet-with-LeBron-James-injury-20230303-0005.html">a torn tendon in his right foot</a>, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic. This is something that should be determined in the next few weeks, so a potential timeline for James is the next big topic.



<h2>How long will LeBron James be out if he gets surgery?</h2>



James scared every fan in Los Angeles when he got injured during the regular season. It was the game against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dallas-mavericks">Dallas Mavericks</a> on February 26 when the King went down. Back then the fear was he was going to be out for the rest of the season, but he missed just 13 games.



LeBron would be out for about two months if he gets surgery to repair the torn tendon in his right foot, per Charania. Despite the great performances he put together to eliminate the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/memphis-grizzlies">Memphis Grizzlies</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/golden-state-warriors-t101550">Golden State Warriors</a>, the injury limited him throughout the postseason. He talked precisely about it after Game 4 against Denver.



“I’m going to get an MRI on it and see how the tendon either healed or not healed and go from there. We’ll see what happens. I knew I could get to the finish line. I knew I had to deal with it and deal with the pain or deal with not being able to be myself before the injury, but there was nothing that made me feel like I couldn’t get to the finish line”, LeBron said in an interview with ESPN.

LeBron James might need surgery: How long would Lakers' star be out?

NBA admits wrong call by officials could have cost series to LeBron James and Lakers

Stephen A. Smith has terrible news for LeBron and the Lakers

LeBron James might need surgery: How long would Lakers' star be out? - Bolavip US

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBr</a><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">o</a><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">n James </a>surpassed every single expectation he had when he entered the league in the legendary 2003 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Draft-2023-How-good-is-Victor-Wembanyama-Video-20230516-0003.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA Draft</a>. Still, some people expected him to lead the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> to another ring in year 20.



Not many 38-year-olds would be able to withstand a 38-minute basketball game, let alone in the NBA. So, why would one expect James to be as good as he was when he was 27?



Still, even James was obviously disappointed for not getting the job done this time. Unfortunately for him, Stephen A. Smith believes this might have been his final shot at that fifth <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> championship.



<h2>Stephen A. Smith Says LeBron James Won’t Win Another Championship</h2>



“It’s not about LeBron, it’s about what you can put around him. Rob Pelinka has done a phenomenal job of transforming this roster, but it still ain’t enough and I’m wondering what else they can get,” Smith said. 



“I think it would be a miracle if they got Kyrie Irving,” the pundit continued. “I’ll pencil in LeBron for 25 points a night, but when you look at Anthony Davis. If we can’t rely on him to show up in consecutive games now, are we gonna be able to do that next year?”



“So to me if you’re LeBron who is approaching his 39th birthday — that with Anthony Davis and with how strapped the Los Angeles Lakers are in terms of what assets they have available, how can I definitively sit here when I’m looking at Denver, when I’m looking at Devin Booker and Kevin Durant wondering if they’re gonna get additional assets in Phoenix, how can I look at some of these other teams and go ‘the Lakers can take them?&apos;” Smith concluded.



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Stephen A. doesn&apos;t think this season is LeBron&apos;s last shot at a 5th ring 👀 | First Take" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CBZe_REkrXU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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Well, all great things eventually come to an end, and it’s not like LeBron has anything left to prove at this point in his career. Still, it’s crazy to think that his reign might finally be over.

Stephen A. Smith has terrible news for LeBron and the Lakers - Bolavip US

Sometimes it can be hard for an athlete not to miss the good old days. Winning titles, receiving love from the fans and being praised by the media are great things an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> player can experience, but they don’t always last forever.



If not, just ask Dwight Howard. Though he still found a way to make headlines <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Rumors-Dwight-Howard-and-stars-playing-overseas-that-could-make-a-comeback-20221223-0017.html">from Taiwan</a>, he struggled to find a place in the league lately. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-draft-top-5-players-drafted-straight-out-of-high-school-20201106-0016.html">Back in the day</a>, any team would have taken him.



Unfortunately, those days are gone, and now he misses them. In an interview with Shams Charania, Howard admitted he would love to be back in the NBA and even try to win another ring. 



<h2>Dwight Howard wishes NBA return</h2>



“I would love to come back to play in the NBA,” Howard said. “I do enjoy playing international basketball. Just the experience is one of a kind. It’s a different type of grind of being in the NBA, and I had a chance to experience it. 



“But I would love to finish off my career with an NBA team, hopefully, win an NBA championship. But if not, I enjoyed playing basketball for so long, and I’m just thankful that I’ve had the opportunity to travel and play in the NBA. It’s the best life.”



Howard won a championship with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> in the 2020 bubble. It’s been a while since then, but he’s still active and hoping to be part of a championship team again.

Former NBA champion with Lakers wants another chance in the league

Former NBA champion with Lakers wants another chance in the league - Bolavip US

To say Austin Reaves had a breakout season is an understatement. The 24-year-old played a pivotal role in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a>‘ run to the Western Conference Finals, making a strong case to land a big contract this offseason.



Reaves has played the final season of the two-year, $2.4 million deal he signed with the purple and gold <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Austin-Reaves-profile-Age-height-college-parents-girlfriend-and-nationality-20230416-0039.html">in 2021</a>, and now looks set to receive a lucrative contract. The Lakers are frontrunners, but they’re not the only team in the queue.



 Since Reaves becomes a restricted free agent, it’s up to LA to make him stay in California for a few more years. However, it looks like the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets">Houston Rockets</a> are also thinking about making a move for the guard.



<h2>Rumor: Rockets have Austin Reaves as high-ranking target</h2>



(Via Kelly Iko of The Athletic)



“Former franchise player and current 76ers guard James Harden is the top target for Houston in free agency, according to league sources, representing the veteran leadership and elite point guard needed to establish structure and offensive cohesion. Outside of Harden, other high-ranking targets for Houston include Brook Lopez, Dillon Brooks and restricted free agents Cam Johnson and Austin Reaves, league sources said. 



They also said acquiring a veteran point guard is Houston’s primary objective, meaning even if a move for Harden didn’t materialize, names like Mike Conley, Jordan Clarkson, Donte DiVincenzo and even former Rockets player Chris Paul could be considered should they become available.”



The Rockets are certainly a team to watch this offseason, since they want to get back to prominence after so long. However, Reaves may be out of their reach since he seems to be happy in LA. Besides, the Lakers will probably do everything to bring him back.

NBA Rumors: The team that could steal Austin Reaves from the Lakers

NBA Rumors: The team that could steal Austin Reaves from the Lakers - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> suffered a crushing 4-0 blowout against the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals. At 38-years old, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> had extraordinary performances, especially in Game 4 with 40 points, but it wasn’t enough.



Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets proved why they were the best team in the regular season and now they’re waiting for the Miami Heat or the Boston Celtics in the 2023 NBA Finals.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-receives-incredible-message-from-lakers-about-nba-retirement-20230524-BUS-3503.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230524_BUS_3503_lebronjames-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="After LeBron James confirmed he&apos;s thinking about retirement, the Lakers sent him a shocking message. Read here to check out the details.
" title="LeBron James receives incredible message from Lakers about NBA retirement" publication_id="BUS#20230524#BUS#3503"></div>


However, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> has sparked a huge controversy after admitting the referees made a big mistake during Game 4 of the series between the Lakers and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a>. Read here to find out the incredible details.



<h2>NBA admits huge blown call against the Lakers in Game 4 vs Nuggets</h2>



In Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals, the Lakers fell 113-111 after they had a 15-point lead over the Nuggets. Nevertheless, an incredible sequence in the fourth quarter could have changed everything.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/LeBron-James-profile-Age-height-weight-wife-rings-and-net-worth-20230413-0007.html" image="https://bolavip.com/__export/1681394740579/sites/bolavip/img/2023/04/13/lebronjames.jpg_1890075089.jpg" excerpt="LeBron James is a legend in the NBA. Read here to check out more details about him such as his age, height, weight, wife, rings and net worth.&amp;nbsp;" title="LeBron James profile: Age, height, weight, wife, rings and net worth" publication_id="BUS#20230413#CMS#0007"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/grant-williams-sends-another-warning-to-jimmy-butler-after-game-2-incident-20230520-BUS-2646.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230520_BUS_2646_jimmybutler_grant_williams.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Jimmy Butler and Grant Williams had a heated exchange in Game 2. Even after the Celtics lost, Williams sent an incredible message to the Heat&apos;s star. Read here to check out the details. 
" title="Grant Williams sends warning to Jimmy Butler" publication_id="BUS#20230520#BUS#2646"></div>


With only 1:07 remaining, Jamal Murray seemed to have lost the ball out of bounds after great defense by Rui Hachimura. The referees first pointed out Lakers’ ball, but then, following deliberation, gave it to the Nuggets because Austin Reaves had supposedly been the last to make contact.



Then, with 56 seconds on the clock, Nikola Jokic scored two points putting all the pressure on the Lakers. LeBron James missed the final shot and the rest is history. Denver clinched a ticket to the NBA Finals.



After the game, the NBA admitted there was a mistake by the officials on that call. “Possession is awarded to Denver. However, the ball touches Murray’s (DEN) left hand last before going out of bounds. Reaves does not make contact with it. Possession should have been awarded to Los Angeles.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/LeBron-James-emotional-message-for-Bronny-James-after-his-son-commits-to-USC-20230507-0010.html" image="https://bolavip.com/__export/1683473996406/sites/bolavip/img/2023/05/07/lebronjames.jpg_1890075089.jpg" excerpt="LeBron James had a very special message for his son after Bronny&amp;nbsp;announced he will play for USC at the college level.&amp;nbsp;" title="LeBron James&apos; message to Bronny after his son finally committed to USC" publication_id="BUS#20230507#CMS#0010"></div>


Of course, Lakers’ fans couldn’t believe it. Though no one knows for sure what would have happened, LeBron James could have gotten the ball with the game tied and a lot of time on the clock. It would have been a totally different scenario than coming from behind.

LeBron James profile: Age, height, weight, wife, rings and net worth

Grant Williams sends warning to Jimmy Butler

NBA admits wrong call by officials could have cost series to LeBron James and Lakers - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> season is over. LeBron James couldn’t get a shot up in the final possession, and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Nuggets</a> beat them in just four games to advance to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Finals.



James was spectacular in the first half of the game, even scoring 21 points in the first quarter alone. However, he ran out of gas at the end, which is normal for a 38-year-old in his 20th season.



However, as much as James put the team on his shoulders while facing elimination, former Laker Kwame Brown was far from impressed. That’s why the often-controversial big man took a huge shot <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">at James</a> on social media.



<h2>Kwame Brown Rips ‘Stad-Padding’ LeBron James</h2>



“If I had a LeBron James jersey, I’d be burning it right now,” Brown said on Instagram live. “If I had a LeBron James jersey it would be on fire right now. I must say, the bust is upset.”



“I discovered, LeBron, you not that, bruh. I’m sorry,” continued Brown. “I can’t hate to say it — you’re a stat sheet junkie. You a bad boy when it comes to stats. Throughout history, the little nerds are gonna look up your statline, and they gonna say ‘He’s gotta be the greatest player to ever play the game.’ And people who actually play are gonna know that is bulls**t.”



“I have never seen a guy of your supposed caliber not even get a shot off. You got all these points, but you were looking for a bailout again,” Brown added. “Kobe Bryant probably would have rose up for a three and won the game. That’s what great players do. You can’t say that you are great, you have to do great things.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">why is Kwame going in on LeBron? 😭😭 <a href="https://t.co/xKbFl3INqA">pic.twitter.com/xKbFl3INqA</a>— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) <a href="https://twitter.com/LakeShowYo/status/1661501843044990976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Of course, people will always take Brown’s words with a grain of salt, but he did play with Kobe Bryant, so he knows one thing or two about his character. Even so, he’ll face plenty of backlash for these comments, but he must be used to that.

Kwame Brown destroys LeBron James in hilarious rant on IG live

Kwame Brown destroys LeBron James in hilarious rant on IG live - Bolavip US

It was a tale of two teams with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> this season. They had two different rosters and had the second-best defense after the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> trade deadline, up to the point where they reached the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Western Conference Finals.</a>



But as good as that roster was, they just weren’t able to get past Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and the Denver Nuggets. They were the better team on both ends of the floor, and the Lakers lacked another ball-handler down the stretch.



That’s why a recent report states that LeBron James might not be that happy with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dangelo-russell" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">D’Angelo Russell</a>, who was exposed and ultimately benched after some subpar play — again — in the postseason.



<h2>LeBron James Might Not Want D’Angelo Russell Back</h2>



“I hate to say one playoff series can change a franchise’s whole outlook on a guy because that just does not happen, but it is happening with some of the people in that building, maybe most significantly, with LeBron,” one Western Conference executive told Heavy. “Is this a guy they want to invest in? Does LeBron want him back — there is talk that he is not Russell’s biggest fan?”



“But they gave up that pick (2027 first-rounder) to get him and I can tell you, that was like pulling teeth for some of them in that building. They gave up the pick, they are not letting him walk away,” the executive added.



Russell will be a free agent and the Lakers won’t make any decisions without LeBron’s blessing, especially considering he’s reportedly weighing in on walking away from the game.



They could be on the market for another lead guard to take some scoring and playmaking duties off LeBron’s shoulders, so keep an eye on Kyrie Irving in free agency, as he’s been tied to a move to L.A. for quite a while now.

LeBron James doesn't want a Lakers player back next season

LeBron James doesn't want a Lakers player back next season - Bolavip US

A few months back, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> were not even in Play-In spots. Flash-forward to May, and Darvin Ham’s team made an impressive run to the Western Conference Finals. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a> swept them, but it was still an interesting resurgence.



All it took for the purple and gold to turn their season around was a major rebuild at the trade deadline. Rob Pelinka pulled off enough moves to give the Lakers a new look, and it worked pretty well. Still, the team couldn’t get <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-could-trade-for-a-former-all-star-to-help-lebron-and-anthony-davis-20230524-BUS-3496.html">where it really wants to be</a>.



With the right changes, the Lakers could elevate themselves from a dangerous playoff team to a legit contender. The front office is reportedly ready to do whatever it takes to go after a championship next year, including parting with one of their February acquisitions.



<h2>Rumor: D’Angelo Russell may not return to Lakers</h2>



According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, the Los Angeles Lakers may not re-sign D’Angelo Russell following his lackluster performances in the Nuggets series. The guard did great in the regular season, but his playoff appearances left much to be desired:



“There’s a strong argument to be made that Russell should have lost his starting job early on in this series, as it was quickly evident the Nuggets’ plan of attacking him on the defensive end was sparking their historically good offense.



“Add in the fact that Russell has been unable to provide the scoring punch that made him such a good fit in these past few months, and it’s been the kind of unmitigated disaster that will likely make free-agency discussions with the Lakers far more complicated than most had expected just a few weeks ago.”



Russell will hit the open market this offseason, and while many thought he earned a place in LA in the last few months, the outlook may have changed after the Denver series. The Lakers have been linked with potential moves for Trae Young and Kyrie Irving, so we’ll have to wait and see whether Russell comes back.

NBA Rumors: The player that could leave the Lakers after brutal elimination to Nuggets

NBA Rumors: The player that could leave the Lakers after brutal elimination to Nuggets - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> had another amazing run with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> during the NBA playoffs. At the All-Star break, the 2022-2023 season seemed lost for the team with a 27-32 record. However, they made an impressive turnaround.



The Lakers eliminated Ja Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round of the playoffs and then stopped a dynasty when they faced the Golden State Warriors. James delivered perfomances for the ages against Stephen Curry and the defending champions.


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However, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a> were extraordinary in the Western Conference finals. Los Angeles had no answer for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nikola-jokic">Nikola Jokic</a> and went home after a 4-0. As a result, LeBron James mumbled retirement and now the Lakers have responded to that.



<h2>Lakers send emotional message to LeBron James about retirement</h2>



LeBron James shocked the NBA after Game 4 against the Denver Nuggets. “We’ll see what happens going forward. I don’t know. I have a lot to think about to be honest. Just for me personally going forward in the game of basketball. I have a lot to think about.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/jimmy-butlers-hilarious-message-for-grant-williams-mocking-the-boston-celtics-20230520-BUS-2604.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230520_BUS_2604_jimmybutler_grantwilliams.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Jimmy Butler sent an incredible message to the Boston Celtics after his altercation with Grant Williams. Read here to check out the details.
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 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-playoffs-lebron-james-reaches-another-amazing-milestone-in-game-4-vs-nuggets-20230523-BUS-3166.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230523_BUS_3166_LeBron-James-Los-Angeles-Lakers-2023-NBA-Playoffs.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="LeBron James has once again reached another incredible milestone. This time the Denver Nuggets were the power forward&apos;s victims during Game 4 of their 2023 NBA Playoffs series.
" title="LeBron James reaches another incredible NBA milestone" publication_id="BUS#20230523#BUS#3166"></div>


Now, the Lakers’ front office has responded to a situation which might change drastically the plans for the upcoming 2023-2024. Nevertheless, Rob Pelinka, the general manager, confirmed James has all their support.



“We’ll look forward to those conversations when the time is right, but I will say this: LeBron has given as much to the game of basketball as anyone who’s ever played. And when you do that, you earn a right to decide whether you’re going to give more.”



This is a crucial statement from the Lakers as they publicly acknowledge there’s no rush or pressure for LeBron at 38-years old. “I think sometimes we put athletes, entertainers, on a pedestal, but they’re humans and just like us. They have inflection points in their career”, said Pelinka.


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Furthermore, Rob Pelinka assured the Lakers want LeBron James as the face of the franchise. “Our job as a Laker is to support any player on our team if they reach a career inflection point and really providing nothing but support for him. Obviously, our hope would be that his career continues, but we want to again just give him the time.”

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LeBron James gets a shocking message from Lakers about retirement - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> knocked on the door of another trip to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Finals. But despite <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James’</a> heroics and Anthony Davis’ defense, they just couldn’t get the job done.



James isn’t getting any younger and needs help now more than ever. The Lakers’ title window is closing right before their eyes, so they need to make moves soon to make the most of it.



With that in mind, NBA insider Zack Buckley of Bleacher Report hinted at the possibility of a sign-and-trade involving D’Angelo Russell to get <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chris-paul" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chris Paul </a>in Los Angeles.



<h2>NBA Rumors: Lakers Could Trade For Chris Paul</h2>



(Transcript via Bleacher Report)



L.A. doesn’t have a natural table-setter to complement James. Russell, Dennis Schröder and Austin Reaves can all initiate offense, but they’re better as scorers than passers. Paul, meanwhile, still ranks among the Association’s best decision-makers, having just averaged 8.9 assists per game against only 1.9 turnovers.



He’d help the Lakers maximize each position, and he’d consistently put James and Davis in favorable scoring situations. Paul would even elevate the supporting cast by knowing where his teammates are most effective and learning how they like to be set up. He’d also be a defensive upgrade over Russell.



(…)



The Suns, meanwhile, might be willing to lose Paul’s passing to get Russell’s superior scoring and shooting. Their offense runs through Devin Booker and Kevin Durant a ton anyway, so they might get more out of a scoring-focused Russell than they would Paul’s distributing.”



Of course, this version of Paul might not be what the Lakers need, but he’d still be an upgrade as a facilitator and table-setter, assuming he can stay healthy throughout the playoffs, which is a big ‘if.’



As for the Suns, they’d pair Devin Booker with one of his best friends and would get a healthier, younger player to try and make another deep postseason run next year.

Lakers could trade for a former All-Star to help LeBron and Anthony Davis

Lakers could trade for a former All-Star to help LeBron and Anthony Davis - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> had a better season than most fans expected. But <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> only plays to win <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> championships, and he knows his days of playing at that level might be coming to an end. 



That’s why he hinted at walking away from the game. It was the first time in his remarkable career that he even hinted at that possibility, so it obviously sounded off the alarms around the league.



Nonetheless, as much as it would make sense for a 38-year-old athlete to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-wont-retire-for-one-major-reason-20230523-BUS-3217.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">walk away from the game, </a>most people around the NBA are positive he’s not going to give up nearly $100 million in contract earnings.



<h2>LeBron James Won’t Leave That Much Money On The Table</h2>



“Just don’t,” an unnamed GM told Heavy Sports. “It’s not happening. It is a good team now, he is playing well, they used their (2027) draft pick in a trade like he wanted. He has two years and about $50 million per year (actually, $47 million and $50 million) on his contract. LeBron has always been a guy who is going to get his money. And he should, good for him. He has a lot of reasons to keep going. Leaving $100 million on the table, that is a significant one for him.”



“Listening to him sounded like I was listening to a 38-year-old who just got swept and was exhausted. That’s all. This will sit out there for a month or two, then he will confirm he is coming back by mid-July,” the executive added.


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" title="Analyst explains why LeBron hinted at retiring" publication_id="BUS#20230523#BUS#3235"></div>


Of course, LeBron is one of the wealthiest athletes of all time, so it’s not like he needs the money. But walking away from $100 million simply makes no sense, especially considering he’d have the chance to make history by playing with his older son, Bronny, before retiring.

The obvious major reason why LeBron James won't retire yet

Analyst explains why LeBron hinted at retiring

The obvious major reason why LeBron James won't retire yet - Bolavip US

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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> history can’t be told without assigning the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Boston Celtics</a> a chapter exclusively for them. They are at the top of the league as the franchise with the most titles, tied with archrivals <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> both with 17 championships.



Their past includes <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/the-most-unbreakable-records-in-nba-history">all-time greats</a> with an impact on the game that goes beyond just Boston. However, teams must continue to perform in the present to not get stuck only in past achievements. That’s what this roster of the Celtics did the last two years.


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In the 2021-2022 season they were very close to adding another ring, although they were defeated by the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors">Golden State Warriors</a> in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba-finals">NBA Finals</a>. Now they reached the Eastern Conference Finals again, but the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat">Miami Heat</a> are 3-0 ahead. Unless they make a miraculous return, their drought might extend a bit more.



<h2>When was the last time the Boston Celtics won a title?</h2>



Their history is mostly dominated why their accomplishments in the beginnings of the league. They won eight championships in a row starting in the 1958-1959 season. A total of eight rings went to Boston in the 1960s decade that saw them as an unbeatable team. However, it’s been a while since a celebration took place in that city.



The last time the Boston Celtics won a championship was in the 2007-2008 season. That team led by a great trio of Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen was the last Celtics’ roster that was able to earn a ring. Those players were near another title two seasons later, but they lost to the Lakers in the NBA Finals. In case they beat Miami in an epic fashion, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a> will be their next opponents.



<h2>When was the last time the Boston Celtics made it to the NBA Finals?</h2>



The last time Boston Celtics got to the NBA Finals was in the 2021-2022 season. Last year Boston had a great run that included sweeping <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-the-trade-that-would-see-draymond-green-and-kevin-durant-together-again-20230521-BUS-2918.html">Kevin Durant</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brooklyn-nets">Brooklyn Nets</a> in the first round, before winning the Game 7 in two consecutive series. They eliminated then-defending champions <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/milwaukee-bucks">Milwaukee Bucks</a> and Miami to reach the NBA Finals.



Their 2-1 start was an interesting advantage mainly because they had to play the fourth game at home. They were having a good performance until <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry">Steph Curry</a> put the Warriors on his back. Golden State went on to win the last three matchups to secure the title with a 4-2 score.

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When was the last time the Boston Celtics won a championship? - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> are one of the most popular teams in the sports industry. They have fans all over the world, and are tied with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston Celtics</a> with 17 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> championships, the most ever.



The Lakers have had nothing but the greatest players in NBA history wearing their jerseys, so it’s normal to think that their fans are kind of spoiled when it comes to winning.



That’s why some didn’t take it lightly when their team was swept by the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Nuggets</a>, and took to Instagram to rip the players. Notably, that didn’t sit well with Austin Rivers, who didn’t hesitate to call them out.



<h2>Austin Rivers Rips Lakers Fans After Playoff Elimination</h2>



(Transcript via Austin Rivers)



“Lakers fans…to the ones saying negative things. Or saying they need to trade Bron, Ad, etc. Relax, take a deep breath. Ur team just made it to the conference finals!! U were literally in a play-in-game weeks ago. So to make that run was impressive!! You had young players step up and get experience and improve. You have trade assets and a good supporting cast guys.



Bron showed he’s still one of the best players in the world. AD is healthy and has a summer to get the body more right and stable. U go into summer make a couple of moves and improve cast in certain areas and come back with some encouraging positive energy, fresh off a conference finals appearance. I say the next 2-4 years could be exciting for the Lakers. Then maybe after that, u talk rebuild, etc. Good season overall for y’all.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="700" height="442" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/05/28121841/Sin-titulo-700x442.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-3247" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px"></figure></div><figcaption>via Lakers</figcaption></figure>



This isn’t the first time an NBA player rips Lakers fans and it most definitely won’t be the last one. Then again, we can’t stereotype and state that all fans are the same, as most showered his team with praise and support after a tough season.

Austin Rivers takes a big shot at Lakers fans

Austin Rivers takes a big shot at Lakers fans - Bolavip US

The<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Los Angeles Lakers</a> failed to finish the job. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>won’t get its dream final between the Lakers and Boston Celtics, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> won’t win a fifth championship, at least for now.



James was visually exhausted and frustrated after the loss. He claimed this season wasn’t a success despite becoming the league’s all-time leading scorer, as he only plays to win.



LeBron even <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-wont-retire-for-one-major-reason-20230523-BUS-3217.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hinted at retirement</a> for the first time in his career, citing that he’ll have a lot of things to think about in the offseason, fueling rumors and a big spark on social media.



<h2>LeBron James Hints At Retirement</h2>



“I wouldn’t say it was a successful year because I don’t play for anything besides winning championships at this point in my career,”&nbsp;LeBron said.&nbsp;“And I don’t get a kick out of making a Conference appearance. I’ve done it a lot.”



“And&nbsp;it’s not fun to me to not be able to be a part of getting to the Finals. But we’ll see what happens moving forward, but I don’t know,”&nbsp;James continued.&nbsp;“I got a lot to think about, to be honest. Just for me, moving forward with the game of basketball, a lot to think about.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">"I don&apos;t get a kick out of making a conference appearance. I&apos;ve done it, a lot." LeBron evaluates the Lakers&apos; season. <a href="https://t.co/EgNtDV2Op8">pic.twitter.com/EgNtDV2Op8</a>— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNNBA/status/1660869250154651649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>LeBron Wants Lakers To Get Kyrie Irving</h2>



However, NBA insider Kevin O’Connor believes this was just a power play by The King, who’s known for his passive-aggressive tactics. Apparently, this could be just a way to get the Lakers to pursue Kyrie Irving:



“I’d bet on LeBron’s comments in part being a negotiation tactic: I’ll retire unless you go all-in next season. And the player James probably wants the Lakers to acquire is Kyrie Irving,“ O’Conner tweeted.



Irving was a Lakers target this season, but the Brooklyn Nets refused to send him to Los Angeles. He’ll now be a free agent, and GM Rob Pelinka will need to be at his best to give his superstar a reason to run it back next season.

Analyst explains why LeBron hinted at retiring - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> couldn’t finish the job. They fought hard, but fell to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Nuggets</a> in just four games despite <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James’</a> epic throwback performance in the season finale.



The 38-year-old left it all on the court from the jump, scoring 21 points in the first quarter and barely getting a breather throughout the whole game. But he’s not the same player he used to be ten years ago.



So, with Father Time looming around and James having 20 seasons under his belt, it seems like the four-time <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> champion is finally considering walking away from the game.



<h2>LeBron James Hints At Retirement</h2>



“I wouldn’t say it was a successful year because I don’t play for anything besides winning championships at this point in my career,” James said. “And I don’t get a kick out of making a Conference appearance. I’ve done it a lot.”



“And it’s not fun to me to not be able to be a part of getting to the Finals. But we’ll see what happens moving forward, but I don’t know,” continued James. “I got a lot to think about, to be honest. Just for me, moving forward with the game of basketball, a lot to think about.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">"I don&apos;t get a kick out of making a conference appearance. I&apos;ve done it, a lot." LeBron evaluates the Lakers&apos; season. <a href="https://t.co/EgNtDV2Op8">pic.twitter.com/EgNtDV2Op8</a>— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNNBA/status/1660869250154651649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>James Wants To Play With Bronny</h2>



However, as much as James could be serious, he had already hinted at staying in the league long enough to play with his older son, Bronny, who recently committed to USC:



“I want him to be in the NBA. I am not going to lie,” LeBron said on Uninterrupted. “I want to be on the court with him. I think that will be an unbelievable moment. He’s about to be a junior so the years, it could get close, but we should see, but I want him to get to the NBA.”


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" title="LeBron James reaches another incredible NBA milestone" publication_id="BUS#20230523#BUS#3166"></div>


James still has a couple of years left in his contract, and Bronny won’t make it to the NBA until the 2024-25 season, so fans can still hang on to the hope of him staying on the court for a little longer.

LeBron James won't retire for one major reason

LeBron James won't retire for one major reason - Bolavip US

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