Kawhi Leonard Said to Want LeBron-Like Influence With Lakers
By Will Fowler
While seemingly every other free agent put pen to paper as soon as NBA guidelines allowed them to, one guy that's been taking his time is NBA Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard. With reports surfacing with details of his most recent meeting with Lakers executives, it appears we may know what he wants if he's going to wear the Purple and Gold.
Influence. Leonard wants to have his own trainers and medical professionals with him if he were to join the Lakers. This is certainly some superstar treatment, though it wouldn't be a first for the team.
Kawhi Leonard is worried about the structure in the Lakers Athletic department, he asked if he was able to bring his own trainers in if he was to sign there.
— Stevie Cozens (@StevieCozens) July 1, 2019
With the Lakers fall out over the off season, it’s no surprise they lack structure and experience in these areas.
For context, LeBron James was allowed the same luxury when he was contemplating his decision last summer. Kawhi is basically asking for the same right that LeBron was given, and based on how badly the Lakers want the superstar forward, I don't blame him.
Kawhi had other questions at the meeting, reportedly asking if the Lakers were trying to trade for him last summer when he wanted out of San Antonio. In trying to show Kawhi how much the Lakers wanted his services, they told him that they were, but the Spurs were asking for four first round picks, a hefty price tag.
Kawhi Leonard reportedly asked Magic Johnson if the Lakers tried to trade for him, and he wants team to hire his own medical professionals. https://t.co/PoSrLpgPbR pic.twitter.com/HV6bldBiYz
— Silver Screen & Roll (@LakersSBN) July 1, 2019
Based on the report, it seems Kawhi has serious interest in heading to the Lakers, so long as they can meet his demands. If he does head to LA to team up with LeBron and Anthony Davis, consider the Lakers immediate title favorites.