<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kobe-bryant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe Bryant</a> were often portrayed as rivals. Ironically, they never squared off in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Finals and weren’t even from the same generation, so that never made much sense.



Still, for whatever reason, it seemed like you couldn’t be a fan of one without hating the other. Fortunately, that no longer seems to be the case among most fans.



With that in mind, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers </a>guard D’Angelo Russell shed some light on the differences between playing with one or the other, as he had the opportunity to meet one when he first entered the league and then the other when he came back to Los Angeles.



<h2>D’Angelo Russell Talks About Kobe Bryant And LeBron James</h2>



“I’ll just go from an aura perspective, and Kobe was on his way out, but LeBron is more involved with everybody and everything,” Russell said on The Pat Bev Podcast.



“On the bus he’s social, on the plane he’s social, he’s just more sociable. When I was with Kobe, I sat next to him on the plane in one of the back seats. I sat next to him every time and just watched and studied him and he never talked,” Russell added.”



“He was really to himself, and at the time he was writing the book and the movie and directing and doing all this stuff so he was locked in, but with Kobe I’ve never seen anything like that. When he walked around, you know how everyone’s talking and someone enters a room and everyone goes quiet,“ continued Russell. 



“He had that about him wherever he went, it was almost weird for him. But he embraced it and that’s really the only difference. On the floor, he was on his way out so he didn’t really have that youthfulness to him where he was bouncey, he was just getting to it,” added Russell. “Bron has a different motivation, he’s still writing his [story]. Kobe already decided he was retiring that year. That team also had a lot of guys on one-year deals and there weren’t a lot of young guys so our win now moment wasn’t there.”



“It was a fun little run, but we got Kobe on the way out when he was happy-go-lucky and his spirit was a little different. Everybody always said I was lucky I got Kobe on my way out versus when he was still through the grind because he was nasty and competitive,” the former No. 2 pick concluded.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/dwight-howard-gets-real-on-the-lebron-james-vs-kobe-bryant-debate-20230802-BUS-40024.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230802_BUS_40024_kobe-bryant-lebron-james.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="LeBron James and Kobe Bryant are two of the greatest players ever, and Dwight Howard got to play with both of them.
" title="Dwight Howard gets real on the LeBron James vs. Kobe Bryant debate" publication_id="BUS#20230802#BUS#40024"></div>


At the end of the day, both took different approaches to achieve the same, and it definitely paid off throughout the course of their careers. Russell is definitely one lucky player.

D'Angelo Russell explains the difference between Kobe Bryant and LeBron James

D'Angelo Russell explains the difference between Kobe Bryant and LeBron James - Bolavip US

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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors</a> have given up on two young players early, with James Wiseman and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jordan-poole" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jordan Poole</a> no longer with the team. That’s the price to pay when you try to compete for an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> championship right away.



With that in mind, some believe Jonathan Kuminga could be the next in line. Despite his undeniable athleticism, defensive IQ, and promising skill set, reports of immaturity make people think he’s not going to fulfill his potential in the Bay.



That’s why he vowed to be better as a person and prove his worth in the upcoming season, stating that he knows this could be a make-or-break year for him.



<h2>Jonathan Kuminga Knows The Clock Is Ticking</h2>



“This upcoming season is definitely the year,” Kuminga told ESPN. “A lot of people are expecting so much from me – and myself; I’m expecting a lot. It’s a lot of pressure, but I don’t really pay attention to the noise. The pressure is always going to be there. It’s just [on] me to go out there and perform.”



“The achievement [I crave] is just growing as a person – there’s nothing more important than growing as a person,” he added. “As long as you grow as a person, that opens up a lot of doors. Now you know what to do on the court and now you know what to do off the court – just [by] growing up.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/steve-kerr-reveals-why-the-warriors-hated-chris-paul-20230804-BUS-40995.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230804_BUS_40995_Chris-Paul.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Golden State Warriors traded for one of their biggest enemies, and coach Steve Kerr reveals the reason behind their dislike for Chris Paul.
" title="Steve Kerr reveals why the Warriors hated Chris Paul" publication_id="BUS#20230804#BUS#40995"></div>


Kuminga could end up being the X-Factor for a Warriors team looking to get back to the NBA Finals. But it might be up to him to get the playing time he claims to deserve.

Jonathan Kuminga makes blunt statement ahead of make-or-break season with Warriors

Jonathan Kuminga gets real ahead of crucial season with Warriors - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chris-paul" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chris Paul </a>is pretty much the opposite of the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Golden State Warriors.</a> His style of play is fairly different from what <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stephen Curry</a> and Steve Kerr have instilled, and they’ve been on opposite sides way too many times already.



The Warriors stood on Paul’s way to a championship multiple times. His teams, especially the Houston Rockets, were a recurring victim of the Dynasty, and they’ve been vocal about their despise for each other.



That’s why some people were worried about their ability to coexist ahead of the upcoming <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> season. However, per coach Kerr, it only speaks volumes of their competitive nature.



<h2>Steve Kerr Explains Why Warriors Players Didn’t Like Chris Paul</h2>



“You know, one of the funny things about this league is that you compete against people and especially if you see someone in the playoffs, over and over again like we did with Chris in Houston,” Kerr said. “And then all of a sudden you’re teammates or you’re coaching someone and you laugh at moments like this where, you know, you’re at each other’s throats for much of your career.”



“It reminded me a little bit of when I played. Reggie Miller and I played against each other in college and then the pros as well. I used to hate Reggie. And then we became broadcast partners and became great friends,” Kerr added. “I feel like that’s kind of how it’s going to be with Chris. We’ve all hated him, you know, because we were competing and he was so good. And now that’s our guy and we love him.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/steve-kerr-finally-reveals-chris-pauls-role-with-the-warriors-20230803-BUS-40582.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230803_BUS_40582_steve-kerr.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With training camp right around the corner, it seems like coach Steve Kerr already has a plan for Chris Paul.
" title="Steve Kerr finally reveals Chris Paul&apos;s role with the Warriors" publication_id="BUS#20230803#BUS#40582"></div>


That’s the beauty and the irony of the game. Now, they will all have to bury the hatchet and get to work together, as they can achieve something special if they put the team first and foremost.

Steve Kerr reveals why the Warriors hated Chris Paul

Steve Kerr reveals why the Warriors hated Chris Paul - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers </a>have added plenty of talent to their ranks. They’re one of the most stacked teams in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>, not to mention the fact that they have <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> and Anthony Davis.



The team, however, could fare a little better, as they also have a former No. 2 pick in D’Angelo Russell, who has failed to deliver thus far, at least considering the expectations.



That’s why Stephen A. Smith believes he’s the only one to blame for hown undervalued his current contract is, as he could’ve make way more money per year.



<h2>Stephen A. Smith Calls Out ‘Undervalued’ D’Angelo Rusell</h2>



“I believe he is being undervalued,” Smith said. “Listen, D’Angelo Russell can play. D’Angelo Russell, with all of your histrionics on the Pat Bev Podcast, let me explain something to you bro. You are undervalued. You deserve more than a two-year, $36 million contract. Matter of fact, I’m of the mindset that you should be getting paid at least 25 to 27 million [dollars] per year.”



“My problem with D’Angelo Russell is this stuff: When was the last time we saw you bro? You have any idea how god awful you were,” Smith said. “Eight points, ten points, three points and four points in a four-game sweep at the hands of the Denver Nuggets, the eventual champions. Do you have any idea, do you even realize that the Lakers don’t get swept if you D’Angelo Russell show up and you play better?”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-star-puts-haters-on-notice-with-blunt-statement-20230803-BUS-40530.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230803_BUS_40530_dangelo-russell-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="D&apos;Angelo Russell knows the Los Angeles Lakers didn&apos;t finish the season on a high note, but he has some strong words about his team&apos;s new look.
" title="Lakers star puts haters on notice with blunt statement" publication_id="BUS#20230803#BUS#40530"></div>


At the end of the day, the only way Russell will earn his respect back is by showing up and performing when it matters the most, especially considering his history with the franchise.

Stephen A. Smith reveals the Lakers' most undervalued player

Stephen A. Smith reveals the Lakers' most undervalued player - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> entered the league as the most hyped prospect in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> history. And even though he came out of high school, he looked like a man amongst men when he joined the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cleveland-cavaliers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cleveland Cavaliers.</a>



We’ve seen way too many versions of LeBron James ever since. He’s played for three different franchises, and has led every single one of them to at least one championship.



However, if you were to pick the single best version of LeBron, it has to be during his time with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Miami Heat</a> right after losing in the NBA Finals vs. the Dallas Mavericks, according to Iman Shumpert.



<h2>Iman Shumpert Reveals The Scariest Version Of LeBron</h2>



“I think the best version I saw of Bron was…you remember the year that Dirk won?” Shumpert said. “That next year they came back. When him and D Wade vowed to not shoot, not settle for threes, and they played their whole first season and they wasn’t shooting no threes.”



“They was just, it was vicious,” Shumpert added. “I was like, ‘Bro, what the fck are we supposed to do with that? I was like, looking at the league. What am I going to do about that? Like what is that, ngga? They running fast. They big as sh*t. I’m like ‘D Wade and Bron literally passing it back and forth and just downhill, downhill, downhill. I feel like that was the scariest Bron to deal with.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-reveals-why-he-wanted-to-join-the-los-angeles-lakers-20230802-BUS-39844.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230802_BUS_39844_lebron-james.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Even though he had never played in the West, LeBron James always dreamed of being a Laker.
" title="LeBron James reveals why he wanted to join the Los Angeles Lakers" publication_id="BUS#20230802#BUS#39844"></div>


The craziest part about this is that it actually happened 12 years ago. James has won four championships ever since, and he can still play at an elite level. That’s just insane.

Former teammate breaks down the scariest version of LeBron James

Former teammate breaks down the scariest version of LeBron James - Bolavip US

The Philadelphia 76ers are facing a lot of uncertainty toward next season in the NBA. Of course, the main topic is <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden">James Harden</a> after the star requested a trade. Teams such as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers">Los Angeles Clippers</a> have become favorites to land him.



However, the&nbsp;Sixers&nbsp;haven’t ruled out the possibility of keeping Harden. As it’s happening with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/damian-lillard">Damian Lillard</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/portland-trail-blazers">Blazers</a>, GM Daryl Morey will try to convince him or wait for the ideal trade package.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-damian-lillard-takes-a-big-shot-at-kevin-durant-20230713-BUS-28386.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230713_BUS_28386_damianlillard-5.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Damian Lillard and Kevin Durant exchanged some words about how to win championships in the NBA. It was a shocking episode between two of the biggest stars. 
" title="Damian Lillard takes a massive shot at Kevin Durant on Twitter" publication_id="BUS#20230713#BUS#28386"></div>


Meanwhile, just a few weeks before the season starts in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a>, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers">Philadelphia 76ers</a> have to deal with a shocking hit to their roster. It’s important to remember the team will start a new era under head coach Nick Nurse after Doc Rivers was fired.



<h2>Montrezl Harrell is out with Sixers after seve knee injury</h2>



The Philadelphia 76ers confirmed Montrezl Harrell has a torn ACL and a torn medial meniscus in his right knee. The veteran took notice something was wrong following consecutive practices with a lot of pain in the area. Though there’s no timetable, he could miss at least the first half of the season.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/james-harden-confirms-shocking-decision-about-his-future-with-sixers-20230629-BUS-20340.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230629_BUS_20340_jamesharden.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="James Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers have made a historic decision about the star&apos;s future with the team.
" title="James Harden could get shocking news from Sixers" publication_id="BUS#20230629#BUS#20340"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-announces-final-decision-between-lakers-or-retirement-20230702-BUS-22095.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230702_BUS_22095_lebronjames-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="After many weeks of uncertainty, LeBron James has confirmed his final decision between the Los Angeles Lakers and retirement from the NBA.
" title="LeBron James confirms on Instagram the next team he&apos;ll play for in the 2023 season" publication_id="BUS#20230702#BUS#22095"></div>


It’s a massive blow for the Sixers as Harrell had been used as a main backup for Joel Embiid. Though Paul Reed is another option at center, the depth chart becomes thin.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/clippers-make-intriguing-move-with-eric-gordon-amid-james-harden-rumors-20230629-BUS-20460.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230629_BUS_20460_ericgordon.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Los Angeles Clippers are making some major moves following closely the James Harden&apos;s situation. 
" title="James Harden: Clippers make very intriguing move amid trade rumors" publication_id="BUS#20230629#BUS#20460"></div>


Now, Reed will take that substitute role for the 2023-2024 season and there might be more minutes for Mo Bamba. Nick Nurse is definitely having a rough few weeks as new head coach at Philadelphia.

NBA News: Sixers lose a key player due to injury

James Harden could get shocking news from Sixers

LeBron James confirms on Instagram the next team he'll play for in the 2023 season

NBA News: Sixers lose a key player due to injury - Bolavip US

The New Yor<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-knicks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">k Knicks</a> have slowly but steadily improved over the past couple of years. But they’re one of the most popular franchises in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA,</a> and as such, they still need another star.



Julius Randle and RJ Barrett have been unable to live up to that hype, and while Jalen Brunson’s tenure in the Madison Square Garden got off to an outstanding star, he could use more help.



With that in mind, Bleacher Report’s NBA staff put together a trade idea that could send <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-raptors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Toronto Raptors</a> rising star OG Anunoby to the Big Apple before the start of the season.



<h2>NBA Rumors: Knicks Could Trade For OG Anunoby</h2>



(via Bleacher Report)



“New York Knicks Receive: O.G. Anunoby



Toronto Raptors Receive: Evan Fournier, Quentin Grimes, Dallas’ 2024 first-round pick (top-10 protection), Detroit’s 2024 second-round pick, New York’s 2025 first-round pick (top-one protection)



The Knicks appear to be saving their ammo for a bigger fish. That ammo is gradually losing its burst. Obi Toppin was already valued at two seconds. Immanuel Quickley is extension-eligible. First-rounders from Detroit and Washington aren’t guaranteed to convey…ever. New York’s own picks have limited appeal unless you believe the franchise will descend into the abyss over the next few years.



To be sure, the Knicks still have the assets to aim higher than Anunoby. But it needs combo wings with size. Anunoby is that—and so much more. Some will quibble over Grimes’ inclusion, but his spot in the rotation is already somewhat muddied by the addition of Donte DiVincenzo. Minutes will be harder to come by if he’s in town with Anunoby, DiVincenzo and RJ Barrett.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-joel-embiid-to-the-knicks-is-a-real-possibility-20230724-BUS-34734.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230724_BUS_34734_joel-embiid-4.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Joel Embiid made it clear that he wants to win an NBA championship, and he already has some ties to the New York Knicks organization.
" title="NBA Rumors: Joel Embiid to the Knicks is a real possibility" publication_id="BUS#20230724#BUS#34734"></div>


The Knicks would have to pay a steep price to get this deal done, but considering Anunobu’s defensive expertise and ever-evolving offensive game, he could be just what they need to get over the hump once and for all.

NBA Rumors: Knicks could trade for a rising star

NBA Rumors: Knicks could trade for a rising star - Bolavip US

D<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/damian-lillard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amian Lillard</a> has told the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/portland-trail-blazers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Portland Trail Blazers </a>that he doesn’t want to be a part of a rebuild. He gave them multiple ultimatums leading to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft, yet they didn’t do anything to change his mind.



Lillard is looking forward to being traded. But the Blazers are doing right by trying to maximize his value and only consider the best and more valuable offers for his contract.



But despite all speculation about a potential holdout if he wasn’t traded to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Miami Heat</a> as he wants, it seems like Lillard could still show up to training camp if that’s the case.



<h2>Damian Lillard Won’t Hold Out</h2>



“I’m told that if he ends up back in camp, he would show up and play. He’s gonna get his money,” reported Blazers beat writer Aaron J. Fentress.



The league even sent out a memo warning Lillard and his camp about trying to handpick his next team. He could reportedly face a steep suspension if the league considers they didn’t follow due procedures to get traded.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/woj-and-shams-reveal-the-heats-latest-offer-for-damian-lillard-20230801-BUS-39320.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230801_BUS_39320_damian-lillard.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Miami Heat are still interested in trading for Damian Lillard, but it may be more difficult than they thought.
" title="Woj and Shams reveal the Heat&apos;s latest offer for Damian Lillard" publication_id="BUS#20230801#BUS#39320"></div>


The Heat will reportedly continue to push to get a trade done sooner rather than later. But at this point, it just doesn’t seem like the Blazers have any intention to cooperate with them.

Damian Lillard makes shocking decision amid trade rumors

Damian Lillard makes shocking decision amid trade rumors - Bolavip US

When the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phoenix Suns </a>traded for Bradley Beal, most people around the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> especualted that Deandre Ayton would be next. They were in a tough spot with this new CBA, and they needed to clear salary cap space.



Even so, the team moved on from Chris Paul instead, and now that Monty Williams is no longer in town, perhaps they hope that Ayton takes a major leap with Frank Vogel.



While that could be the case, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kevin Durant’s</a> team will definitely hope that, Zach Lowe of ESPN reveals that the only reason they decided to hold onto him was because of his limited trade value.



<h2>Deandre Ayton’s Trade Value Is Low Right Now</h2>



“Ayton is the make-or-break factor in Phoenix’s defense being good enough to win four playoff series,” wrote Lowe. “He developed from a confused, out-of-his-depth rookie into a reliable centerpiece during the Suns’ 2021 Finals run. As last season unraveled, the balance Ayton had worked so hard to hone eluded him.”



“There is no viable trade right now turning Ayton into the kinds of players (or picks) that would maintain or boost the Suns’ NBA title odds, per league sources,” Lowe added. “The Suns’ top priority — from Ishbia to Ayton and down to the 15th man — should be doing whatever it takes to repair their relationship with Ayton, to lift him back up. The Suns’ likely path toward a good-enough defense is switching a ton across the perimeter while keeping Ayton closer to the paint as the last line.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/kevin-durants-suns-could-trade-for-another-star-20230801-BUS-39329.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230801_BUS_39329_kevin-durant.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Even though they&apos;ve already made some major moves, the Phoenix Suns, Kevin Durant&apos;s team could look to add even more firepower.
" title="Kevin Durant&apos;s Suns could trade for another star" publication_id="BUS#20230801#BUS#39329"></div>


Of course, everything can change throughout the course of the season, and it could all go down to whether Ayton is motivated enough to play and get back to his old level or not.

This is why the Suns haven't traded Deandre Ayton yet

This is why the Suns haven't traded Deandre Ayton yet - Bolavip US

The<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Golden State Warriors </a>and coach Steve Kerr will have to hit the drawing board.<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chris-paul" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Chris Paul</a> isn’t a natural fit for their core, especially not next to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry">Stephen Curry.</a>



Great players can find a way to coexist, and it’s hard to find a more intelligent player than Paul. But at first glance, one can only wonder if they’re actually better with him.



At least, former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>star DeMarcus Cousins doesn’t seem to think so. In a recent interview, Boogie criticized the Warriors for making this move, as he thinks Paul is a bad fit and past his prime.



<h2>DeMarcus Cousins Doesn’t Think The Warriors Are Better With Chris Paul</h2>



“I gotta be honest, I didn’t understand the Chris Paul trade,” Cousins said on Sirius XM NBA Radio. “Then I looked at it like maybe they want to free up the books for next season. But as far as it being about basketball and Xs and Os on the court, I don’t really see that elevating the Golden State Warriors.”



“He’s up in age. You got rid of a young, youthful guy for an aging veteran. I’m not taking away from anything Chris Paul has done in his career; I’m just speaking on this stage of his career,” added Cousins. “I don’t see him elevating the Golden State Warriors.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/steve-kerr-finally-reveals-chris-pauls-role-with-the-warriors-20230803-BUS-40582.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230803_BUS_40582_steve-kerr.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With training camp right around the corner, it seems like coach Steve Kerr already has a plan for Chris Paul.
" title="Steve Kerr finally reveals Chris Paul&apos;s role with the Warriors" publication_id="BUS#20230803#BUS#40582"></div>


Of course, Cousins has been critical of Paul in the past, so maybe we should take his comments with a grain of salt. Then again, we can’t deny the fact that this will be an odd fit until proven otherwise.

DeMarcus Cousins rips Warriors over Chris Paul trade

DeMarcus Cousins rips Warriors over Chris Paul trade - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors</a> have thrived with their chaotic and full-motion offense, which is pretty much the opposite of what <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chris-paul" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chris Paul </a>does. That’s why some find it tough to believe he can coexist with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stephen Curry.</a>



Paul seemed to be reluctant to come off the bench for the first time in his career, which is another big concern regarding his ability to adapt and find success with his new team.



With that in mind, coach Steve Kerr revealed that he’s actually met with Paul and Curry to discuss what he wants from the newcomer in order to make another run at an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> championship.



<h2>Steve Kerr Reveals What He Wants From Chris Paul</h2>



“I watched Steph [Curry] and Chris work out together,” Kerr said on NBA Today. “We’ve talked about our team. One of the things I told Chris was, we have to be more controlled this year. Last year, we were number 29 in the league in turnovers, in other words, second worst in the league, but we had the fastest pace in the league. That’s not a great combination. And one of the things I love about Chris is that he controls games. And, so I told him we need his ability to control the game at key times for us and he knows he’s going to adapt to some of the stuff we do. Especially when he’s playing with Steph, throwing the ball ahead, playing with a little more pace.”



“So I kind of like the idea of finding a better balance this year and being more under control, but still being, you know, really lethal offensively,” Kerr said. “And then of course, you know what Chris does in pick and roll and his midrange game, he always gives you a chance in every possession to get a good shot. And he’s, you know, one of the great point guards of all time. So we’re lucky to have him.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/chris-paul-breaks-the-silence-on-playing-with-draymond-green-20230724-BUS-34852.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230724_BUS_34852_draymond-green-chris-paul-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Chris Paul and Draymond Green have never liked each other, but they still have one big thing in common.
" title="Chris Paul breaks the silence on playing with Draymond Green" publication_id="BUS#20230724#BUS#34852"></div>


That still doesn’t shed light on whether he’ll start or come off the bench, but it seems like things are going well, and he’s on board with what his new coach wants and needs from him.

Steve Kerr finally reveals Chris Paul's role with the Warriors

Steve Kerr finally reveals Chris Paul's role with the Warriors - Bolavip US

Love him or hate him, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stephen Curry</a> has become one of the most influential players in the history of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>. Besides being the best player in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors</a> history, he changed the way the game is played.



Curry led his team to four NBA championships in a decade. He’s 4-2 in the NBA Finals and was one win away from being 5-1. Also, he led the team with the best record in NBA history.



But Father Time doesn’t care about your résumé or what you did in the past. He’s ruthless and spares no victims. That’s why the 35-year-old knows he’s closer to the end of his career than to the beginning.



<h2>Stephen Curry Opens Up On Retirement</h2>



“The thoughts [of retirement] do creep in of what that timeline really looks like,” Curry told USA Today. “I know it almost puts into perspective how important these next two, three years are in terms of doubling down on the level that I want to be at and continue to play at, and pushing it to the limit as long as I can.”



“I just love the fact the timeline almost just gives me much more motivation for the now to take advantage of every opportunity that I have because, you know, the ball is going to stop bouncing at some point,” the guard added.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/steve-kerr-finally-reveals-chris-pauls-role-with-the-warriors-20230803-BUS-40582.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230803_BUS_40582_steve-kerr.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With training camp right around the corner, it seems like coach Steve Kerr already has a plan for Chris Paul.
" title="Steve Kerr finally reveals Chris Paul&apos;s role with the Warriors" publication_id="BUS#20230803#BUS#40582"></div>


Curry is still at his peak, and it would be a shame to see him walk away from the game while he still has some left in the tank. Hopefully, we’re still years away from that day.

Stephen Curry makes sad admission about retirement

Stephen Curry makes sad admission about retirement - Bolavip US

GM Rob Pelinka had gotten the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Los Angeles Lakers</a> in trouble. But he managed to right his wrong by revamping the roster before the trade deadline, swapping <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/russell-westbrook" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russell Westbrook </a>to put a better supporting cast around<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> LeBron James.</a>



D’Angelo Russell took his talents to Southern California again. And while he was far from efficient in the playoffs, he did give Darvin Ham some solid play in the regular season.



And now that the Lakers added more pieces as soon as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>offseason started, the former top-five pick believes the team can get over the hump and make some noise next season.



<h2>D’Angelo Russell Says The Sky Is The Limit For The New-Look Lakers</h2>



“I have no idea. I know we got a lot of bodies, though,” said Russell. “So trying to give the team what it needs every night to win, I think that’s gotta be our focus. Whatever or however it gets done, if everybody is locked into just giving the team what it needs that night.”



“That night might be scoring, the next night might be eight assists, the next night might be all passes because they ran you off and you made the one more to Austin Reaves in the corner, he’s hitting,” added Russell. “It’s gotta be the right play, right mentality type of energy for our group because anybody can do it. He can throw any five out there and get it done. But if we’re all committed to that I think the sky is the limit for the group, honestly.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-reveals-why-he-wanted-to-join-the-los-angeles-lakers-20230802-BUS-39844.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230802_BUS_39844_lebron-james.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Even though he had never played in the West, LeBron James always dreamed of being a Laker.
" title="LeBron James reveals why he wanted to join the Los Angeles Lakers" publication_id="BUS#20230802#BUS#39844"></div>


On paper, the Lakers are a better team than they were last season, and they’ll have more time to develop chemistry and reach their best version. Hopefully, they’ll also get better production from him in the playoffs.

Lakers star puts haters on notice with blunt statement

Lakers star puts haters on notice with blunt statement - Bolavip US

During the last playoffs, LeBron James&nbsp;shocked the&nbsp;<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>&nbsp;with a very controversial statement about his future after the&nbsp;<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a>&nbsp;were eliminated by the&nbsp;<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Nuggets</a>&nbsp;in the Western Conference finals.



“We’ll see what happens going forward. I don’t know.&nbsp;I have a lot to think about to be honest.&nbsp;Just for me personally going forward in the game of basketball. I have a lot to think about.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-sign-key-piece-to-retain-lebron-james-20230628-BUS-19388.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230628_BUS_19388_lebronjames-3.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Los Angeles Lakers have started to make big moves for LeBron James in a very crowded Western Conference.
" title="NBA News: Lakers sign key piece for LeBron James" publication_id="BUS#20230628#BUS#19388"></div>


However, the&nbsp;Lakers&nbsp;believed in their project and made great moves in&nbsp;<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-lakers-make-big-moves-in-free-agency-to-retain-lebron-james-20230701-BUS-21298.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">free agency</a>&nbsp;to convince the King. That’s why, a few weeks ago,&nbsp;<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> announced his final decision and will stay with the team. Now, the legend sent an even bigger message.



<h2>LeBron James’ promise to the Lakers before the 2023-2024 season</h2>



In the start of free agency, LeBron James couldn’t hide his excitement after the Lakers were very active. Key players were extended like&nbsp;Austin Reaves, D’Angelo Russell and&nbsp;Rui Hachimura&nbsp;and extraordinary assets arrived like&nbsp;Gabe Vincent, Taurean Prince,&nbsp;Cam Reddish&nbsp;and Jaxson Hayes.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-lakers-make-big-moves-in-free-agency-to-retain-lebron-james-20230701-BUS-21298.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230701_BUS_21298_lebronjames.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="LeBron James got much needed help with the Los Angeles Lakers during the start of free agency. Gabe Vincent leads an impressive list of names. 
" title="NBA News: LeBron James got massive help from Lakers during free agency" publication_id="BUS#20230701#BUS#21298"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-first-message-after-his-son-bronny-suffered-a-cardiac-arrest-20230727-BUS-36554.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230727_BUS_36554_lebronjames-14.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="LeBron James sent a very emotional message on social media after the cardiac arrest suffered by his son Bronny. 
" title="LeBron James&apos; message after his son Bronny had a cardiac arrest" publication_id="BUS#20230727#BUS#36554"></div>


So, after taking some time off following his son Bronny’s cardiac arrest, James posted a video in his Instagram account made by Chris Johnson showing the legend’s preparation toward the 2023-2024 season. “Let’s get it!!! It’s just work. Prime time year coming #21”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-star-puts-haters-on-notice-with-blunt-statement-20230803-BUS-40530.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230803_BUS_40530_dangelo-russell-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="D&apos;Angelo Russell knows the Los Angeles Lakers didn&apos;t finish the season on a high note, but he has some strong words about his team&apos;s new look.
" title="Lakers star puts haters on notice with blunt statement" publication_id="BUS#20230803#BUS#40530"></div>


LeBron James is 38-years old and the promise of his best season ever with the Los Angeles Lakers immediately became a hit on social media. The King seems hungry to win a fifth championship. 



<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">Strive For Greatness 💪🏾🔥 <a href="https://twitter.com/KingJames?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KingJames</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/jushoop?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#jushoop</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/juswin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#juswin</a> <a href="https://t.co/fqyzI1uSrm">pic.twitter.com/fqyzI1uSrm</a>— Chris Johnson Hoops (@ChrisJHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChrisJHoops/status/1686757057050169344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>

LeBron James' special promise for Lakers' fans on social media

LeBron James' message after his son Bronny had a cardiac arrest

NBA News: LeBron James got massive help from Lakers during free agency

LeBron James' special promise for Lakers' fans on social media - Bolavip US

LeBron James' big promise to Lakers before 2023-2024 season

Following a fantastic campaign that saw them win their fourth <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> championship in eight years, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors">Golden State Warriors</a> left much to be desired last year. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry">Stephen Curry</a> was one of their few bright spots, but he couldn’t do it all on his own.



Mike Dunleavy Jr. has taken note of this, making sure to build a competitive team around Steph for the 2023-24 NBA season. With Draymond Green back and Chris Paul coming on for Jordan Poole, the Dubs are optimistic again.



At 35, Curry is still capable of playing at a high level and bringing more success to San Francisco. However, the guard has warned his teammates it will take a collective effort to get back to glory days.



<h2>Stephen Curry warns Warriors teammates success will require everyone’s effort</h2>



“Guys are going to be asked to do things that may not all the way vibe with how they see themselves,” Curry told The Athletic. “The biggest thing is, look at teams that have won. You realize that there is a certain way about how you show up on a nightly basis. 



“Everybody is important,” he continued. “Everybody is valuable. It’s not going to look pretty for the majority of the year for some guys. Some are going to be in and out of the rotation.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-stephen-curry-may-lose-another-warriors-teammate-this-season-20230802-BUS-39953.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230802_BUS_39953_Stephen-Curry.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The 2023-24 NBA season is drawing nearer, and it looks like Stephen Curry will not see a former teammate at the Golden State Warriors anymore.
" title="NBA Rumors: Stephen Curry may lose another Warriors teammate this season" publication_id="BUS#20230802#BUS#39953"></div>


Last season, word on the street was that some players were unhappy with their role on the team. Curry’s message this year is pretty clear: the Warriors will need from everyone to be competitive again.

NBA News: Stephen Curry has an important warning for his Warriors teammates

NBA: Stephen Curry's important warning for Warriors teammates - Bolavip US

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