NBA Dunk Legend Drops Bombshell on LeBron James: Shocking Claim About Lakers’ Latest Trade Decision

The Los Angeles Lakers made headlines recently by parting ways with guard D’Angelo Russell in a significant trade. Russell, along with Maxwell Lewis and three future second-round picks, was sent to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. This trade ends Russell’s second stint with the Lakers, where he returned in 2023 after initially being drafted by the team in 2015.

NBA legend and former Lakers star Dwight Howard didn’t hold back his thoughts on the trade, hinting that LeBron James might have played a pivotal role in the decision.

Dwight Howard’s “LeGM” Comment

Taking to Instagram Live on Monday, Howard voiced his opinion on the trade, referencing LeBron James with a cheeky remark.

“DLo went to the Nets,” Howard began. “He went back to the Nets. What’s going on, NBA? What’s going on Lakers? ‘LeGM made the decision.’ LeGM said, ‘It’s enough, DLo.’”

The nickname “LeGM” has been widely used by fans and analysts to describe LeBron James’ perceived influence over personnel decisions within the Lakers organization. While Howard’s tone appeared playful, his comments reflect a common belief that LeBron has substantial sway over the team’s roster moves.

A Notable Trade

The trade sends D’Angelo Russell back to Brooklyn, where he had a standout 2018–19 season, earning an All-Star spot. The former No. 2 overall pick played a critical role during that time, helping the Nets secure a playoff berth. However, his return to the Nets comes under different circumstances as the team looks to rebuild its roster.

The Lakers, on the other hand, are acquiring two key players in Finney-Smith and Milton:

– Dorian Finney-Smith: Known for his defensive versatility and three-point shooting, Finney-Smith provides depth to the Lakers’ frontcourt.

– Shake Milton: A skilled combo guard, Milton adds scoring and playmaking to the team’s backcourt.

Dwight Howard Reflects on the Lakers

Howard also used the live stream to reminisce about his own time with the Lakers. The three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year had multiple stints with the team, with the 2019–20 season being particularly memorable. During that season, he played a key role in helping the Lakers win the championship in the NBA bubble.

When reminded that Monday was LeBron James’ birthday, Howard responded with exasperation: “I know it’s LeBron’s birthday today. The NBA has posted it 90 million times already, and it ain’t even 10 o’clock.”

Howard currently plays for the Taiwan Mustangs in the Asian basketball league, where he also serves as a part-owner of the team and the league.

The Bigger Picture

The Lakers’ decision to trade Russell underscores their commitment to building a roster that complements LeBron James and Anthony Davis as they push for another championship. Russell, while talented, had struggled with consistency, which may have influenced the move.

With the addition of Finney-Smith and Milton, the Lakers gain much-needed versatility and depth. Finney-Smith’s defensive prowess and Milton’s scoring ability align with the team’s strategy to support their superstars.

A Legacy of Influence

LeBron James’ influence on team decisions has long been a topic of discussion in the NBA. While it’s unclear how much say he had in this particular trade, the “LeGM” moniker highlights his reputation for shaping the teams he plays for.

Dwight Howard’s playful jab at LeBron may have been good fun, but it also resonates with the broader narrative surrounding the Lakers’ decision-making process.