
USA Today via Reuters
Jan 30, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) checks himself after being called for a foul during the game against the Atlanta Hawks during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
Jan 30, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) checks himself after being called for a foul during the game against the Atlanta Hawks during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
The New York Knicks, despite their initial inclination to maintain roster stability, faced trade market limitations leading up to the deadline due to tensions with powerhouse agent and LeBron James’ close friend, Rich Paul. However, recent developments indicate a resolution between the two entities as of Friday. Previously, Paul’s Klutch Sports had shown reluctance to collaborate with the Knicks, steering clear of players associated with the franchise. The CEO, though, expressed a willingness to reconsider if a meeting addressed his concerns.
This newfound understanding not only eases things for the Knicks but also sparks fresh speculations. Klutch Sports represents notable talents like Zach LaVine, Dejounte Murray, and Malcolm Brogdon—potential trade assets for the Knicks. Amidst these possibilities, the basketball world is abuzz with rumors of LeBron James potentially parting ways with the Los Angeles Lakers. The timing of Paul’s meeting adds intrigue, hinting at a potential seismic shift in the league.
With the Knicks-Klutch impasse as the backdrop – which we've reported on previously — the team and Rich Paul met today and "things were hashed out," a source told The Post. Focus now moving forward with better relationship.
— Stefan Bondy (@SbondyNBA) February 2, 2024
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While Paul, as a seasoned professional, would not have obstructed any deals, friction between the two could have acted as potential landmines. A case in point is Cam Reddish, whom Paul represented during his Knicks stint in 2022-2023. By the conclusion of Reddish’s NY stint, he found himself completely removed from the Knicks’ rotation. Now that tranquility reigns between them, fans are buzzing with excitement over the LeBron James narrative.
Read More – LeBron James Is “Killing Way More Than (Michael) Jordan Was” At 39 Years Old, Claims Ex-NBA Champion
Fans have mixed reactions to LeBron James’ speculations
@papi_kevo_ wasted no time in highlighting the recent developments, casting doubts on the possibility of a LeBron James trade. Regardless, the fan radiated that James might exercise his player option next year for MSG.
Why do i feel like this is setting up lebron coming to the Knicks next year
— Kevin Zwicker (@papi_kevo_) February 2, 2024
Adding to the intrigue, @slothmanifesto analyzed the timing, suggesting that the final week of the trade deadline might stir up some surprises in the league.
a week before the trade deadline is interesting timing
— SM (@slothmanifesto) February 2, 2024
In a recent ESPN interview, Rich Paul emphatically stated that James would not be traded this season. Armed with this assurance, @ce2argarcia questioned the Knicks’ chances of securing the king.
Knicks fans think they could get Lebron 😭😭
— Pmount (@ce2argarcia) February 2, 2024
Expressing a fervent desire to see James remain in his current jersey, @Wonka24Willy urged NBA fans not to associate James with Rich Paul’s negotiations with the Knicks.
Plz keep Lebron away I’m begging
— knicks cook (@Wonka24Willy) February 2, 2024
Recognizing the potential game-changing impact of having James on their roster, @hopefulmetsfan couldn’t resist sharing a rendition of James donning a New York Knicks jersey.
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Here we go pic.twitter.com/cDIfBvDBtF
— kap (@hopefulmetsfan) February 2, 2024
Joining the chorus of fans, esteemed analyst Stephen A Smith also threw his voice into the mix. On his show ‘First Take,’ Smith expressed a desire to see LeBron James in the iconic Knicks orange and outlined the career milestones James could potentially achieve in the vibrant New York setting.
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Taking it a step further, he also highlighted the untapped business opportunities that could await LeBron in the Big Apple.
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