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Free Agent Former LeBron James Championship Teammate Won't Join Him On Lakers

It wasn't meant to be...

Matt Levine

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Entering the offseason, there was much speculation about former LeBron James teammates possibly coming to LA to link up with the King. However, it didn't happen as the few that were rumored went back to their respective teams. Of course, there was Kyrie Irving, who signed back with the Dallas Mavericks and was always a pipe dream to come to Los Angeles. But the more realistic one was former UCLA product, Kevin Love. 

LA needed big man help so the connection was there with Love. He went to school in LA and was very close to James during their time together in Cleveland. It all made sense for a pairing this season. But Love decided to remain with the Miami Heat after helping them reach the NBA Finals this past season. He agreed to a two-year deal to stay in South Beach.

It could be possible that the Lakers weren't interested in Love. Prior to him playing well In the postseason, many questioned whether he still had much left in the tank. The 34-year-old power forward would have been fun to see in purple and gold and the two sides have been linked together even prior to James coming to LA. 

It just wasn't meant to be and the Lakers went a different direction. They brought in former New Orleans Pelican center Jackson Hayes to fill their open big man slot. Maybe in another dimension, Love chooses the Lakers and he and James get to play together once again. 

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Matt Levine
MATT LEVINE

Matt earned a Master of Science degree in Sport Management from Louisiana State University in 2021. He was born and raised in the Los Angeles area, covering all Southern California sports in his career.

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