Lakers' President Rob Pelinka Delivers Powerful Response to LeBron James' Veiled Criticism of Front Office After Playoff Exit

The LA Lakers' season came to an abrupt end on Wednesday when they crashed out of the Round 1 playoff, after going 1-4 down in the series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Following the exit, LeBron James did not mince words in putting the front office in the limelight, mentioning the want voiced by Anthony Davis before receiving the eventual marching orders. Lakers' newly promoted team president Rob Pelinka addressed the comments hurled by LeBron James and assured that the franchise will take the necessary steps to strengthen the squad.

Also Read | NBA Trade Rumor: Lakers Predicted to Acquire Celtics' Star Guard in Exchange for Austin Reaves

Rob Pelinka On LeBron James

Pelinka also showcased trust in LeBron James, stating that while the management will do whatever it takes to make the prospects of the LA Lakers better, in either case, James will give his best for the team.

“LeBron’s going to have high expectations for the roster and we’re going to do everything we can to meet those, but I also know that whatever it is, he’s going to still give his 100% every night, whether that’s scoring, assisting, defending, rebounding, or leading,” Pelinka said during his end-of-season press conference with coach Lakers coach JJ Redick on Thursday. “We know that’s going to always be 100% and never wavers.”

Following the Lakers’ elimination from the postseason on Wednesday night, James was asked how physically taxing it was to play small forward since Davis was traded for Luka Doncic.

“No comment, I’ll never say that, because my guy AD (Davis) said what he needed, and he was gone the following week,” James said in jest. “I got no comment. I put that uniform on every night, I gave everything that I had, and that’s all that matters.”

Also Read | LeBron James Delivers Five-Word Lesson to Timberwolves' Star Anthony Edwards Post-Lakers' Playoff Exit

LeBron James Remains Indecisive About His Future

The 40-year-old James has kept the suspense on whether he will return or not.

“I don’t have an answer to that,” James told reporters. “Something I’ll sit down with my family, my wife and my support group and kind of just talk through it and see what happens. And just have a conversation with myself on how long I want to continue to play.”

Despite stating that he hasn't decided on his future, one could expect LeBron James to return as would be unfair to the game and the fans if a player of his stature does not conclude his career on a high. However, if the Lakers do not make improvements to the side then the veteran could contemplate whether it is worth it or not.