USA Today via Reuters
Miami, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) gives an interview after defeating the Miami Heat in game 4 of the 2020 NBA Finals at AdventHealth Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Miami, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) gives an interview after defeating the Miami Heat in game 4 of the 2020 NBA Finals at AdventHealth Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
The NBA and NBPA are finally on the same page regarding the start of the 2020-21 season. On Thursday, the NBPA voted to begin the season as soon as December 22. However, many big names, including LeBron James, were hesitant at first to agree to this date.
James, who will enter next season as a 36-year-old, takes special care of his body. Naturally, a shorter offseason would mean changes in his plans. Despite these issues, according to NBA analyst Brian Windhorst, LeBron will be returning.
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“LeBron initially pushed back against this, and subsequently, it’s been explained to me that LeBron changed his position.
“He crossed the aisle and said, ‘I’m okay going December 22nd even though I have to change my routines and I’m not happy about the short offseason because it’s the best thing for business.’
“LeBron owes the NBA money right now. He owes them cash. As crazy as that is to say.”
LeBron is one of the few players in the league who has already been paid his next season’s salary in advance. But with longer season delays, the league could face several financial instabilities.
This thought must have crossed James’ mind and might have played a crucial role in him agreeing to an early start of the season.
Will LeBron James still sit out the first month of next season?
USA Today via Reuters
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James warms up before playing the Miami Heat in game five of the 2020 NBA Finals. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Although James has agreed to an early start to the season, there is still no word whether he will be on the court at the start of the season. Lakers guard Danny Green made this revelation a few weeks back.
“If we start in December, I think most guys [are like] ‘I’m not going to be there… to have that quick of a restart, I wouldn’t expect [LeBron] to be there for the first month of the season.”
Lakers guard Danny Green on the proposed Dec. 22 start to next season:
"If we start in December, I think most guys [are like] 'I'm not going to be there… to have that quick of a restart, I wouldn't expect [LeBron] to be there for the 1st month of the season." pic.twitter.com/NYqNxzNEmZ
— Logan Murdock (@loganmmurdock) October 26, 2020
The LA Lakers will be defending their title next season, and if their leader sits out in the beginning, it could have a negative impact on their performance. Additionally, next season will reportedly be 10 games lesser than the usual.
All things considered, James’ green signal to the season beginning in December is a great sign for the Lakers. But what do you think? Let us know your view in the comments section.