LeBron James’ agent reveals truth about Warriors trade talks

Matthew Legros
Stephen A. Smith and Rich Paul on a Feb. 14 episode of "The Stephen A. Smith Show."

LeBron James’ agent Rich Paul opened up about the Warriors and Lakers’ trade talks for his superstar client and where he stood in the middle of the equation.

Klutch Sports head honcho Rich Paul went on the Stephen A. Smith show to clear the air on the buzz surrounding the Golden State Warriors’ attempt to acquire his client LeBron James.

Paul had released a bold statement immediately following the February 8 NBA trade deadline that James was happy on the Los Angeles Lakers and was not seeking a trade.

In an effort to set the record straight, Paul gave his perspective as an agent while acknowledging the hype, as well as the dream scenario that playing alongside Warriors superstar Stephen Curry would have generated.

Paul offered balanced perspective as James’ advisor

Paul candidly told Smith that he understood what was at stake in James’ chance to elongate the Warriors’ dynasty, but as his agent, had to give him sound counsel.

“I’m always gonna do what’s best for the client, what’s asked of the client. But, there’s no reason for you to have representation if you’re not gonna necessarily value their advice.”

Paul defended the guidance he gave to James as well as not compromising his professional role to steer him in the wrong direction.

As for Paul’s rationale, he was forthcoming about that too. When Smith asked him what exactly he told James, he said, “Where’s the win? Because, if you go somewhere and you fall short, I can count 50 losses. So, what’s the value in that?”

At this juncture of James’ career, the 21-year veteran has done it all in the league and received enough criticism to last several lifetimes. For now, staying in L.A. is in his best interest, as Paul hit home in the interview.

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