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Byron Scott criticizes LeBron James and Rich Paul over free agency

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 14, 2026, 4:00 AM

Last updated Jul 14, 2026

Byron Scott criticizes LeBron James and Rich Paul over free agency

Summary

Former Los Angeles Lakers player Byron Scott spoke out against LeBron James and his agent Rich Paul during a podcast. Scott suggested that the Lakers are better off after losing James in free agency, describing their influence as problematic for teams considering signing him. He claimed that other teams now view signing James as a hassle due to the associated 'antics' and the potential need to also sign James' son, Bronny James. Despite Scott's comments, reports indicate significant interest in James from several teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, following his exit from the Lakers.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Byron Scott argues Lakers benefit from LeBron James' departure.
•Scott criticizes James and Paul for their free agency tactics.
•He mentions the idea of a potential Bronny James trade.
•Reports show multiple teams interested in signing James.
•Teams like the Cavaliers and Heat are pursuing James.

Latest Updates

4:00 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers Legend Calls Out LeBron James & Rich Paul’s “Antics”

What they're saying

"
One former Los Angeles Lakers legend believes the team is better off after losing LeBron James to free agency. Respected 1980s Lakers star Byron Scott went out of his way to throw shade at James and his agent Rich Paul over how they’ve handled free agency. The claims of Scott were that other the “antics” […] The post Lakers Legend Calls Out LeBron James & Rich Paul’s “Antics” appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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Cleveland Cavaliers Golden State Warriors Los Angeles Lakers Miami Heat NBA Basketball