After Bronny James‘ draft came through and the ‘King James’ deal was reportedly sorted for the upcoming season even former foes are happy for LeBron James. Kendrick Perkins even made an unusual bet and praised the 4x NBA champion who agreed to a max contract. However, the former Celtics legend ripped into the performance of the GM and VP of Basketball Operations for the Los Angeles Lakers.

On ESPN’s First Take show, Perkins couldn’t hold his excitement for his former teammate at Cleveland. “Number one, the goat does it again, the goat does it again, King James longevity. And another 100 million in his bank account.” After agreeing on a two-year deal instead of the expected three years, suggested to Perkins that LeBron might be playing his last year as a professional. The max contract situation was never in doubt but was talked about because of agent Rich Paul. He had hinted that LeBron might take a pay cut to improve the roster.

Kendrick Perkins believed Rob Pelinka dropped the ball by not signing Klay Thompson and other targets. Thus, after waiting a couple of days, LeBron agreed to a max contract. “They’re on two different pages. When it comes down to LeBron the reason that he wanted to take a pay cut is for the simple fact he wants to win now at a high level.” And the dispute might arise due to a difference in approach. “LeBron James is thinking about championships. Rob Pelinka is thinking about the future.”

According to reports, LeBron was willing to take a pay cut for 3 players, but none of the moves materialized. The Lakers not only missed the boat on ‘Captain Klay’ but also on two other players James Harden, and Jonas Valanciunas. It seems the Lakers are unable to add a Big 3 to their roster.

“When you have someone like LeBron James, one who is considered one of the greatest, if not the greatest player of all time, you gotta take advantage of that.” Kendrick Perkins few days ago was sure that LeBron wanted to win the championship this season. He even made a never-heard-before bet to convey his point.

Kendrick Perkins’ big bet

“I’m willing to bet my left big toe that LeBron James is not taking a pay cut or considering taking a pay cut for the Lakers’ future—it’s for the now. LeBron James wants to win right now.” Perkins said on an ESPN show about his draft classmate of 2003. Once again reiterates the point that Pelinka should take advantage of LeBron James and build a team for the championship this season.

That can only be done by adding championship-caliber players around LeBron James. So he could go and complete the mission, as per Perkins. The Lakers also missed out on adding DeMar DeRozan. The 6x NBA All-Star could join the Miami Heat as they are currently the odds-on favorite team for his next destination.

LeBron James has agreed to a max deal for two years for $104 million. Plus, his contract also includes a no-trade clause. And even Bronny James agreed to a 4-year deal. Which is worth $7.9 million and includes a team option in the fourth year.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud, Caitlin Clark’s Olympic snub, and more, watch this video.