Los Angeles Lakers icon LeBron James has made headlines this summer, but the latest buzz—LeBron James might join the Celtics—might just leave fans reeling. This season, James has been the center of excitement both on and off the court, but recent developments hint at an even more startling twist in his illustrious career.
LeBron James Might Join the Celtics—A Move That Could Shatter Lakers Fans’ Hearts
First, let’s rewind. James’ “Mind The Game” podcast co-host JJ Redick snagged the Lakers’ head coach position, despite a coaching resume that reads like a beginner’s manual. Then came the family affair: James’ 19-year-old son, Bronny, was drafted by the Lakers with the 55th pick, signing a guaranteed four-year, $7.9 million contract—a rarity for a second-round rookie.
Not to be overshadowed, LeBron himself secured a jaw-dropping two-year, $101.4 million deal with the Lakers. This extension promises he’ll play through the 2025-26 NBA season—at the ripe old age of 41, making it a record-setting 23rd season.
Amid this whirlwind, James has shone brightly at the 2024 Paris Olympics, guiding Team USA to what could be his third gold medal. With averages of 14.2 points, 8.6 assists, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game, James has been nothing short of stellar.
But here’s where the plot thickens. Reports from Josh Kosman of The New York Post suggest that James might join forces with the Fenway Sports Group and RedBird Capital in a bid for the Boston Celtics. Yes, you heard that right. The Celtics, the Lakers’ most bitter rivals, could soon have LeBron James as a part-owner.
Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck has announced plans to sell the franchise by 2028. James, who will be 43 by then, might still be in the NBA, given that the final year of his current contract would be his 23rd season—a feat few athletes achieve. Speculation about James joining an ownership group has long been rife, but the notion of him partnering with the Celtics—a team with a storied rivalry with the Lakers—is particularly provocative.
Historically, former Lakers players have joined rival teams in various capacities. Shaquille O’Neal, for instance, held a stake in the Sacramento Kings after his career ended. But for James, switching allegiances to the Celtics could be perceived as a dramatic betrayal to Lakers fans, many of whom still hold a grudge against Boston’s success.
So, what’s driving this potential move? Financially, aligning with the Celtics—a franchise with 18 titles—makes considerable sense. For one of basketball’s greatest, the prestige and opportunity of joining a winning organization could be too tempting to resist. Whether this potential shift will indeed transpire or remain in the realm of speculation, one thing is certain: the basketball world is watching with bated breath.
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