Shocking Report Reveals Lakers Rival Didn’t Go Against LeBron James’ Wishes

LeBron James still has a massive pull in the NBA.
Sep 30, 2024; El Segundo, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) during media day at the UCLA Health Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Sep 30, 2024; El Segundo, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) during media day at the UCLA Health Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images / Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
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The Los Angeles Lakers are in training camp as they have begun preparing for the 2024-25 NBA season. It's officially the start of the JJ Redick era for the Lakers as they look to bounce back after a disappointing ending to last season.

The preseason gets underway on Friday night as the Lakers host the Minnesota Timberwolves. Los Angeles added Bronny James this offseason, which is a dream come true for LeBron James.

As we approach the regular season, a report revealed how much power LeBron still has in league circles.

Lakers News: Golden State Warriors Decided To Respect LeBron’s Wishes

According to ESPN's Ramona Shelburne, the Golden State Warriors had Bronny on their draft board but decided not to take him due to LeBron's desire to play with his son.

"The Warriors liked Bronny's skill set and had him on their draft board, sources said. Selecting him ahead of the Lakers, who held the 55th pick, would've been a shrewd move -- perhaps even to entice James to sign there as a free agent. But ultimately, sources said, the Warriors opted to respect the wishes James had made clear and the Lakers signaled they would grant."

Ramona Shelburne

The Lakers and Warriors are Pacific Division rivals but that didn't matter. James is so well respected around the league that Golden State let Bronny slip the Lakers at No. 55.

Although it was always likely that LeBron was set to re-sign with Los Angeles, the Warriors didn't want to sour any chance they had to sign the four-time champion.

The Lakers pulled the trigger and added Bronny in June. Now, he and LeBron are the first-ever father-son duo to play together in the NBA. No one wanted to stop history, as LeBron was very clear with his wishes. And everyone around the league respected it. That highlights the power that he just has across the board.

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