LOS ANGELES—The Los Angeles Lakers shocked the entire sports world by signing the NBA’s greatest player, LeBron James on Sunday, July 1. King James inked a 4-year contract for $153 million. The city of Angels rejoiced as news quickly spread; after five  years of agony and losing, the Purple and Gold are once again relevant.
James, 33, is a four time MVP, three time NBA Champion and 14-time All-Star. King James will lead a young core of talent including Kyle Kuzma, Josh Hart and Lonzo Ball.
This marks the second time that James abdicates Cleveland, however, the reaction expressed gratitude and appreciation from both sides. The polar opposite from 2010, no television special no Beatle burning of his iconic #23 jersey.
In his second stint with the Cavaliers, James brought Cleveland their first professional sports crown in 2016, when Cleveland overcame a 3-1 hole, to beat the Golden State Warriors.
James is building a media empire, complete with his own production company. This move is for his future after he steps away from the game.
Within hours of the news, tickets skyrocketed, his new jersey sold out on NBA.com and the Lakers are 7 to 2 favorites to win the NBA title. The Los Angeles Lakers have always signed the best players in free agency. Besides the entertainment, the legacy  of the franchise and the gorgeous weather, we also used some Magic.
President of Basketball Operations, Magic Johnson realized his job was on the line unless he acquired a top free agent. A visit to James house on Saturday night sealed the deal. LeBron has appeared in the last eight NBA Finals.
That was in the Eastern conference, by far the weaker compared to the West. It will take some time to overtake Golden State or the Houston Rockets, which still has a better roster. After the first domino fell, other players eager to play alongside LeBron quickly signed deals with the Lakers.
Lance Stephenson, Javale McGee and Rajon Rondo will be instrumental as the Lakers supporting cast in hopes of winning an NBA championship.
Six of the eight all time scorers in NBA history were Lakers. Welcome to L.A. LeBron!