LeBron James Reportedly 'Hasn't Been Involved At All' in Lakers' Offseason Decisions

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James reportedly "hasn't been involved at all" in the team's offseason operations, per ESPN's Shams Charania on Friday's edition of NBA Today.

That isn't to say the four-time NBA MVP has been apathetic regarding the team's moves, nor does it seemingly symbolize any deeper issues with him and the organization. Rather, Charania noted that the reigning All-NBA Second Teamer has been "enjoying the summer" and focusing on getting ready for his 23rd year in the league.

"LeBron James' focus is really just on this season, and his future beyond that is really dependent on how this team is doing, and where does this team stack up? What kind of start they get get off to?" Charania began.

"And the one request he has made that [Klutch Sports founder and CEO and James' agent Rich Paul] gave in his statement on the opt-in day right before July was, he wants the action for this team to become a title contender and compete for a championship.

"Outside of that, LeBron James, my understanding is he hasn't been involved at all in Lakers operations. He's gonna report for media day, training camp, and we'll see how this team looks, but there hasn't been the inquiries for LeBron James on what's going on here, what's going on there. He's been enjoying the summer, and then he's gonna report on media day, and we'll be off to the races from there."

The 40-year-old James is still thriving despite playing two-plus decades in the Association, averaging 24.4 points, 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds per game last season for the 50-win Lakers, who reached the NBA playoffs as a No. 3 seed but fell to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round.

The Lakers have made some key moves this summer, perhaps none more important than retaining Luka Dončić (three-year, $165 million extension) and James, who picked up his $52.6 million player option.

However, L.A. also made some key additions, including a much-needed center in Deandre Ayton, who has averaged 16.4 points and 10.5 rebounds per game over his seven NBA seasons. Veteran combo guard Marcus Smart, a tenacious defender, helps strengthen the team's backcourt depth as well.

Power forward Jake LaRavia, who averaged 6.9 points and shot 42.3 percent from three-point range last season, will help the Lakers spread the floor on offense.

We'll see how this Lakers squad performs soon enough with the team opening the season on Oct. 21 at home against the Golden State Warriors.