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Fans React as NBA Analyst Makes a Bizarre Prediction About LeBron James’ Role in the NBA 2021-22 Season

Published 09/14/2021, 2:39 PM EDT

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With the confirmation of Gasol’s trade and buyout, the Los Angeles Lakers are now in a dilemma. While they have a true backup center in Dwight Howard, what they now lack is a true second center with the ability to shoot from beyond the arc. Dwight Howard is a defensive monster, but he is not a perimeter or mid-range threat.

Markieff Morris majorly handled this drawback last season, when they faced this same issue. The roster had Drummond and Harrell as backup centers, but neither could shoot consistently from beyond the arc. Now, with the trade of Marc Gasol, some experts say that the Lakers might use LeBron James in the number 5 position. Trevor Lane, who is a Senior NBA Analyst for LakerNation, tweeted about this dilemma for the Lakers.

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Of course, with any expert opinion, comes criticism and feedback. The Lakers fans and NBA enthusiasts did not hesitate in replying to his tweet with different reactions.

Lakers fans react to a rumor that LeBron James might play at Center

A part of the fan base believes that the Lakers will go for another big player in the buyout market. They have already signed DeAndre Jordan. This proposition seems far-fetched considering it would mean either Howard or Jordan will have to play the fourth fiddle.

Another part of the fan base feels Carmelo Anthony or Trevor Ariza will be a better player for the role of a small-ball center. Many of the fans felt it would be a need-based measure for the Lakers to resort to a small ball game where they need a center who can stretch the floor; Especially against teams using that strategy as well.

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While some fans are outright against the idea of playing LeBron or Carmelo in that role.

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The conclusion from fan reactions

Had the Lakers retained Morris or Kuzma, they might not have had to face this issue. Kuzma being a 6ft 10 inch forward, can also play as an ideal small-ball center. While the uncertainty revolving around the rumor is obvious, one thing is for certain.

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LeBron James is a versatile player who can do whatever he needs to make the team succeed. So he will be flexible in his role in the roster as long as he starts the game and the changes yield results.

Former Teammate Reveals The One Record LeBron James Is Desperate to Maintain Each Season

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Written by:

Chaitanya Dadhwal

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Chaitanya Dadhwal is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. Even though his journalism is driven by his desire to understand both sides of an argument and give a neutral perspective, he is biased towards Houston Rockets and Arsenal, and he has shown exactly how loyal he can be through tough times. Currently a Law student at Jindal Global Law School, he aims to have his own sports management firm one day and enjoys rap music during his time off.
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