Veteran forward LeBron James has scoffed at the idea that he won’t be a difference-maker in his 24th season.
On Tuesday, analyst Chris Brockman said that he expects James to be a “non-factor” in his age 41 season.
“LeBron is gonna be a non-factor this season,” Brockman said on the “Rich Eisen Show” while discussing the LeBron James free agency drama.
“Everyone needs to, like, ready themselves for that… He’s living in the past.”
LeBron James Fires Back
Brockman’s comments did not sit well with James, who responded with a flurry of laughing emojis on his IG stories, as seen below.
James is well within his right to feel that way. Last season, he averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, 6.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals on 51/31/74 shooting splits. Notably, he played a key role in helping the Los Angeles Lakers upset the Houston Rockets in the first round of the playoffs even with his co-stars Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves sidelined.
LeBron James Free Agency Sweepstakes
Per multiple insiders, James has more or less made his decision and is expected to announce his next team within the coming days.
However, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on Tuesday that James is still weighing his options and is expected to choose between his hometown franchise, the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Philadelphia 76ers and the Miami Heat. The news obviously spells bad news for the Golden State Warriors and the Minnesota Timberwolves — the two Western Conference teams also pursuing James.
“The feel is those five teams remain in the mix, but a focus on Cleveland, Miami and Philadelphia,” Charania said on Tuesday.
“And he’s made it clear he wants to be part of a team where he has a chance to compete for a championship. A new team environment and culture he can be a part of.
“The reason that this is taking so long and why he is able to take his time is this is not a money driven decision.”
Furthermore, James could reportedly sign the veteran minimum contract to ensure that the title contender he joins keeps all their pieces in tact.
“This could be any day, any week now,” added Charania.
LeBron James Breaks Silence on Free Agency as Decision Day Nears