A shocking revelation has emerged from the world of basketball, specifically the Los Angeles Lakers organization. Jeanie Buss, the team's governor, reportedly considered trading the legendary LeBron James, a move that has sparked controversy and divided opinions.
In an insightful article by ESPN's Baxter Holmes, we delve into the inner workings of the Lakers during the Buss siblings' control. Holmes reveals that Jeanie Buss harbored resentment towards LeBron, citing his "outsized ego" and the influence of his camp and Klutch Sports on the team. She felt that the credit for LeBron's arrival in 2018 should have gone to the team leaders who signed him, not solely to LeBron.
But here's where it gets controversial... Sources close to the matter claim that Jeanie Buss was particularly upset about the aftermath of the Russell Westbrook trade in 2021. The Lakers acquired Westbrook to appease LeBron, but when the trade didn't pan out, LeBron managed to evade much of the blame. This led to a disappointing season and ultimately, Westbrook's departure.
In 2022, Jeanie Buss considered not offering LeBron an extension or even trading him. According to Holmes' sources, the Clippers were mentioned as a potential trade partner. However, LeBron eventually signed a lucrative two-year, $104MM contract with a no-trade clause in July 2024.
Jeanie Buss also expressed resentment towards LeBron for what she perceived as a lack of gratitude for the team's decision to draft his son, Bronny James, in the 2024 draft. In response to these claims, Jeanie issued a statement to The Athletic, stating that it was unfair to involve LeBron in her family's drama and that his contributions to the Lakers were greatly appreciated.
Holmes' article covers a range of other intriguing topics, including the attempt by Joey and Jesse Buss to sell only a portion of the family's controlling interest in the team. They presented a plan to maintain control while providing cash for the older siblings, but Jeanie's decision to sell most of the family's stake to Mark Walter at a $10 billion valuation changed everything. The family now retains only 17% ownership, just above the threshold required for Jeanie to remain as governor.
Sources close to Jeanie Buss reveal that she made the decision to sell due to concerns about keeping the Lakers competitive in a league where an increasing number of teams are owned by billionaires. However, Joey and Jesse reportedly disagreed with this logic, citing restrictions in the NBA's Collective Bargaining Agreement that limit team spending.
Additionally, Holmes reports that several members of Jeanie's inner circle, including former player Kurt Rambis and his wife Linda Rambis, received substantial bonuses as a result of the sale. Linda received $24MM, and Kurt received $8MM, amounts chosen in honor of Kobe Bryant's iconic uniform numbers.
The dismissal of Joey and Jesse Buss from front office roles in November was initially attributed to "new ownership." However, sources reveal that it was Jeanie's decision, going against the vision of their father, Dr. Jerry Buss, who had intended for Joey and Jesse to one day run basketball operations.
This article has sparked a heated debate among basketball fans and analysts. What are your thoughts on Jeanie Buss' reported considerations? Do you think her actions were justified, or did she overstep her boundaries? Feel free to share your opinions and engage in a respectful discussion in the comments below!
