Enes Kanter Freedom appears to be auditioning to replace Skip Bayless with his recent controversial remarks about LeBron James.
During an appearance on OutKick’s “Don’t @ Me,” the former NBA center took some heavy shots at the Los Angeles Lakers superstar, claiming James is “not a good teammate.” Despite never having played alongside James, Kanter insisted that “nobody” wants to team up with the 20-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion.
Kanter, known for his outspoken criticism of Turkey’s government, drew a bizarre parallel between his political activism and his views on LeBron James. “When I see a dictator, I know it. LeBron is literally like the dictator of the NBA,” Kanter stated. “He controls the media. He controls his narrative. If you go against his agenda, you’ll get traded, and everybody knows it.”
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These dramatic claims were prompted by the Lakers’ recent drafting of LeBron’s son, Bronny James, with the No. 55 pick. Kanter, a former No. 3 overall draft pick himself, argued that Bronny’s selection was solely due to his famous last name. “He might be a good dude, but he’s not good enough to play in the NBA,” Kanter said. “The reason he got drafted is because of LeBron. The reason JJ Redick is the coach is because of LeBron.”
Kanter’s comments come amid a quieter offseason for the Lakers, who haven’t made significant moves in free agency. This inactivity is likely more attributable to salary cap constraints than any reluctance to play with one of the greatest players in NBA history.
Enes Kanter Freedom’s provocative statements about LeBron James have certainly stirred the pot, but they also highlight the polarizing nature of opinions in sports media. While Kanter’s claims about LeBron’s influence and Bronny’s draft status are sensational, they also underscore the intense scrutiny and speculation that surround high-profile athletes and their families.
As the NBA season progresses, it remains to be seen whether these remarks will have any lasting impact on perceptions of LeBron James and his legacy in the league.