Since the 2018 offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers have re-emerged as a prominent contender for the NBA championship. After missing the playoffs each year from 2013 to 2019, the Lakers experienced significant frustration.
However, the arrival of superstar LeBron James in free agency revitalized the team’s fortunes. The Lakers achieved their championship aspirations when they acquired star big man Anthony Davis in James’ second season with the team.
Together, James and Davis led the Lakers to the 2020 NBA title, forming one of the league’s top duos. Despite this success, the team has struggled since the end of the 2020 season.
Injuries and unsuccessful trades have plagued the Lakers, and as LeBron James approaches retirement, the team has struggled to support him effectively during the latter part of his career. This has largely been attributed to general manager Rob Pelinka and owner Jeanie Buss.
As of mid-August, the only notable change has been at the head coach position. Pelinka has attempted to make trades, but these efforts have not succeeded. The challenges might stem from either other teams’ reluctance to negotiate or Pelinka’s difficulty in finalizing deals. Meanwhile, LeBron James, even at nearly 40, continues to perform at an elite level.
Recently, the Celtics surpassed the Lakers with 18 NBA Championships, while the Lakers’ most recent title in 2020 brought their total to 17.
LeBron James could potentially adopt an ‘If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em’ strategy after his retirement. While active players are ineligible to own a team, James may pursue ownership opportunities once he retires, likely within the next few seasons. According to the New York Post, James could become a partial owner of the Boston Celtics. Fenway Sports Group, which owns the Boston Red Sox and partners with James, along with RedBird Capital, is considering bidding for the Celtics. By then, James is expected to be retired, making this opportunity plausible.
Once he retires, James may very well explore owning an NBA team, given his deep connection to the sport. Being part of an ownership group could provide the perfect way for him to remain involved in the game he loves.
