Rich Paul strongly opposed LeBron James ‘switching teams’ to join Stephen Curry at Golden State Warriors
Basketball agent, Rich Paul scuppered the chances of his client, LeBron James teaming up with Stephen Curry at the Warriors.
Rich Paul, LeBron James and Stephen Curry
LeBron James and Stephen Curry have been at the helm of the sport over the past decade for their respective franchises. However, there were rumors during last February’s deadline that there was a possibility of watching them both on the same team. Interestingly, With the Lakers and Warriors both struggling to find a spot in the playoffs, speculations circulated that the Warriors were looking to trade in James to partner with Curry.
However, this blockbuster trade never ever materialized or gained any traction. This was because James’ agent, Rich Paul strongly advocated against James ‘switching teams.’ As per a report by Marc Stein, Paul wanted to prevent LeBron from switching teams for the 4th time in his career. The agent feared backlash from fans and critics alike.
On the other hand, fans did get to see James and Curry play together, but for their nation, Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Both stars were on top of their game and complimented each other very well throughout the tournament, winning Gold in the process. Despite all the rumors, Curry and James playing on the same roster in the NBA now seems quite impossible.
This is because James is happy in Los Angeles with his loved ones and has signed a contract extension this summer. Similarly, Curry has made it obvious that he wishes to finish his professional career with the Warriors. However, it remains to be seen how this story unfolds in the coming days/months.
Rich Paul once made a bold claim about his client LeBron James
The debate about whether Michael Jordan or LeBron James is the greatest player in basketball is and will always be difficult. However, James’ agent and close friend, Rich Paul presented an intriguing viewpoint that he believes gives his client an advantage. Unlike Jordan, Paul made a huge claim regarding James and the media attention he receives 24 by 7 in the industry.
Mike transcended the game. When Kobe came, Kobe was a silhouette of Mike. That's everything, which is great. But LeBron is the first player to have to deal with a 24/7/365 news cycle of sports and opinions from those that's not even capable or carry the expertise to give a valid opinion.Rich Paul on the Gils Arena Show
Putting aside Paul’s bias for his friend, he makes an interesting point. While Jordan had his haters throughout his storied career, the introduction of social media did create a new environment for players to manage. James has handled the new trends and new developments in the sport flawlessly which is admirable.
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Kartik Mudaliar
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