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LeBron James and his agent Rich Paul met with Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka and head coach Durvin Hamm last week to discuss the team’s direction for the 2022-23 season. It is reported.
according to Chris Haynes Yahoo Sports .
James is eligible for a two-year, $97.1 million extension this offseason. Although some time has been spent in contract negotiations, Haynes said the 37-year-old is more focused on figuring out how to ensure the Lakers are in contention for the title this season.
“James was keenly aware of the importance of consistent competitiveness and cohesion, noting that last season’s team failed to stand a chance on many nights,” Haynes wrote.
The Lakers went 33-49 in the 2021-22 season, failing to make the playoffs. The team struggled with chemistry and effort issues, as well as injuries. James hopes to avoid a repeat of last season, but his new head coach seems to be on the same page.
According to Haynes, Hamm, who had been hired to replace Frank Vogel, “agreed with James and reiterated that his main objective was to hold everyone accountable and foster an atmosphere of selflessness”. A former assistant to the Milwaukee Bucks, he said, “defensive tenacity needs to be picked up across the roster,” and if a player doesn’t agree to a new role, he can move them to a new role or He also showed that he doesn’t hesitate to take things off the line-up. new strategy.
Haynes added that Hamm said he intended to run the team’s offense through power forward Anthony Davis, to which James agreed. Davis was limited to 40 games last season after dealing with multiple injuries. However, the team is reportedly encouraged by his progress this offseason.
Los Angeles are also looking for improvements in Russell Westbrook, and Haynes said “the team is also looking to improve their shooting percentage in corner 3” from their star point guard this season.
Ultimately, the meeting was “deemed productive and informative”.
