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Support pours in for LeBron James after analyst’s disrespectful prediction

LeBron James caught the attention of NBA fans on Tuesday when the four-time league MVP shared a short clip of The Rich Eisen Show, placing 22 laughing emojis on top of it.

In the video, co-host and producer Chris Brockman predicted that James would be a “non-factor” this upcoming season if he decides to join the Miami Heat, who are one of his top landing spots this summer, alongside the Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, and Cleveland Cavaliers.

“If he goes to Miami, enjoy the Play-In Tournament,” Brockman stated. “Bron’s gonna be a non-factor this season. I think everyone needs to like, ready themselves.”

James, 41, is coming off yet another productive campaign, averaging 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists, and 1.2 steals on 51.5 percent shooting from the field in 60 regular-season appearances for the Los Angeles Lakers, despite playing as the third option behind Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

MORE: LeBron James should be chasing a ring, but he’s not

Jan 10, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the first quarter of a game against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on January 10, 2021 in Houston, Texas. Mandatory Credit: Carmen Mandato/Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 10, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the first quarter of a game against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on January 10, 2021 in Houston, Texas. Mandatory Credit: Carmen Mandato/Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports

LeBron James’ supporters come to his defense after absurd prediction

Chris Brockman’s “non-factor” prediction about LeBron James certainly stirred up social media, as James’ fans vehemently disagreed with the ESPN analyst’s take.

“A white dude who never touched a court btw,” a fan said on X.

“Honestly, how does a moron like this guy have a job in sports? This moron is a senior producer on a national show? Shows talent doesn’t matter at all,” another fan commented.

“LeBron might just go to Miami to prove that crackhead wrong,” said another fan.

“Miami blows outside of the Greek Freak and Bam. That being said, LBJ will be a factor wherever he goes. That’s just some Kendrick Perkins stupid s–t,” chimed in another fan.

If James ultimately goes back to Miami, his role would be different from what it was during his Big 3 days with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. However, it seems that he won’t mind, especially if it gives him the best chance of winning his fifth Larry O’Brien trophy.

LeBron James’ ex-teammate sends Cavs warning amid NBA free agency

LeBron James’ free agency decision remains a big talking point in NBA circles. He is expected to announce it in the coming days, but his former Cleveland Cavaliers teammate, Iman Shumpert, sent him a warning.

The one-time champion cited the pros of joining the Philadelphia 76ers or Miami Heat. However, Shumpert argued that James won’t be happy if he signs with Cleveland.

MORE: LeBron James should be chasing a ring, but he’s not

““If this is about a ring, go to Philly,” Shumpert said. “If this is about selling tickets Miami. If this about ended your career the way it should go, go to Cleveland. Just don’t go to Cleveland trying to be happy about a win because you not going to win there. You’re not going to be happy. This is about legacy, the return tour, this is not about winning don’t you dare go over there think it’s rolling with the winners.

“I don’t know what’s up with them during the playoffs, don’t do it. I’ve been on a team with LeBron when he was frustrated and he felt like he got too much going on. He going to start shipping s**t out of there, man.”

Shumpert and James played together from 2014 to 2018 with the Cavaliers. They made four consecutive finals appearances and won the title in 2016.

Jan 7, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) warms up before the game against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Which team will LeBron James join?

Reports suggest that Cleveland, Philadelphia, Miami and the Golden State Warriors are the finalists for James’ signature. Each franchise offers something unique to the four-time NBA champion, and it goes without saying that he has a big decision to make.

Joining the Cavaliers or the Heat will not be a first for James. He is familiar with both teams, delivering championships for them during his previous stints. The 41-year-old could be the missing piece to the 76ers’ championship quest, while forming a dynamic duo with Stephen Curry is on the table with the Warriors.

James is entering his record 24th season. He is likely taking his time in what could be the biggest professional decision of his legendary career.

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