NBA renowned analyst Stephen A. Smith has given credit to LeBron James for always respecting his contracts. Smith said James went to Los Angeles Lakers and he has honored his deal. The veteran was given a two-year contract extension for $97.1 million recently, which has been the talk of the town in the NBA.
Smith’s comments came after Kevin Durant finally decided to stay with the Brooklyn Nets. Durant had signed a $198 million extension of four years in the last season but the talisman requested a trade on June 30. However, in the end, both Durant and Kyrie Irving will stay with Brooklyn Nets for the upcoming season.
On the other hand, Smith added that LeBron James also honored his deal with Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat before making a move to the Lakers.
“In the end, you cannot be a star in this league, forcing your way out of one franchise after another. It’s bad for the game.” Smith said on ESPN. “We lament stuff about LeBron James in the past. The nerves of us all. LeBron James never dishonored a contract.
“He signed with Cleveland, and he honored it. He departed from Cleveland to go to Miami; he honored it. He went back to Cleveland from Miami; he honored it. He went to Los Angeles; he has honored his deal. So, we have to give credit where credit is due.”
Meanwhile, James was in stellar form in the previous season as he averaged 30.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 6.2 assists in 56 games in 2021-22. He was also selected to play in his eighteenth All-Star games.
James has all the experience under his belt and he will once again be determined to prove his mettle in the upcoming season.
