Right after the Los Angeles Lakers got swept in the Western Conference Finals, LeBron James hinted that he would consider retiring this summer. Virtually no one took him seriously, but some still wondered if he was making a passive-aggressive attempt to pressure his team into making some significant moves.
The Lakers opened free agency on Friday not by chasing big stars or big names, as some thought they would, but by making some solid additions. Forward Taurean Prince and guard Gabe Vincent agreed to deals, giving the squad two new two-way players. Jaxson Hayes, a young, energetic center with plenty of athleticism and decent potential, followed early Saturday morning.
But Los Angeles’ biggest free agency success has come in retaining its own players. Guards Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell and forward Rui Hachimura all came to terms with the team on new contracts, which will allow it to build continuity and cohesiveness moving forward.
James posted an Instagram story that seemed to indicate he approves of the players who agreed to sign with the Lakers.
LeBron James’ Instagram story on Saturday afternoon featured photos of all the players the Lakers made agreements with in the first day of free agency. Certainly a tacit sign of approval from the L.A. vet entering his 21st season. pic.twitter.com/tieCFXxnHJ
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) July 1, 2023
Just about everyone expects the four-time MVP back in the Purple and Gold this fall. It looks like he and his team will have a legitimate shot at another NBA championship once the new season begins.
