LeBron James sort of shocked the basketball world on Sunday evening when he agreed to terms on a four year, $154 million dollar contract with the Los Angeles Lakers.
After meeting with Lakers President of Basketball Operations Magic Johnson on Saturday night, James made the decision to head west and sign with the Lakers.
So what does LeBron’s move to the Western Conference mean for him and the Lakers? It means that James will be taking over a team very similar to the one he left in Cleveland. A young, athletic roster with a handful of veterans who can come off the bench.
The Lakers signed veterans Lance Stephenson, JaVale McGee and Rajon Rondo. All three fill immediate needs and are capable of getting James the ball in iso situations.
As far as James fantasy value, it will not change. Just like in Cleveland, James will be the Lakers first option offensively and should get plenty of touches. James had a career year in 2017 averaging 27.5 points, 8.6 assists and 9.1 assists. James will come close to matching those numbers but I don’t think he will play 82 regular season games like he did last season.
James ADP in 2017 was 6. Based on his stats last season and the move to Los Angeles, I wouldn’t be surprised if James went in the top five in drafts this upcoming season.
James is going into his age 34 season and playing the best basketball of his career. His fantasy stock has never been higher.