The Los Angeles Lakers made the move of the summer by signing LeBron James to a massive four-year deal. Lakers owner Jeanie Buss went on The Rich Eisen Show Wednesday to discuss the franchise's summer, and she likened snagging James to the signing of Shaquille O'Neal to a seven-year contract in 1996.
Jeanie Buss on LeBron James: "It felt like a familiar feeling that when we got Shaquille O'Neal as a free agent in 1996. It kind of felt the same way." via @RichEisenShow #Lakers
— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) August 15, 2018
The summer of 1996 was obviously a big one for LA. Before signing Shaq to that mammoth deal, the Lakers acquired Kobe Bryant in a draft day trade. All of a sudden they had the two cornerstones for their future dynasty, and Jeanie, like her father before her, knows just how important having stars is in the NBA.
Jeanie Buss on signing LeBron James: "That is the formula, kind of the way Dr. Buss liked to do things is to go after the best & put together the best team he can to play and represent the Lakers." via @RichEisenShow #Lakers
— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) August 15, 2018
The current Lakers only have one definite cornerstone right now, but they're hoping they either have another one on the roster or they can go out and acquire another. LA has a promising young core with Brandon Ingram and Lonzo Ball leading the way, which is something that likely played a role in drawing The King to Hollywood.
Jeanie Buss: "The idea that LeBron chose to come to the #Lakers that he knows what we're building…That he wanted to be a part of what we're doing. It validates the work that Magic Johnson & Rob Pelinka have done to kind of turn the tide for the team…" via @RichEisenShow
— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) August 15, 2018
While getting LeBron James was huge, the rest of Los Angeles' offseason has drawn some ire. Rajon Rondo, Lance Stephenson, JaVale McGee and Michael Beasley joining James and the young core is an interesting mix, but Buss is confident the team will figure things out and get back into contention after several years of misery.
The overall Shaq comparison is a little different given the big man was only 24 when he signed with the LA, the feeling of excitement and high expectations are certainly similar now.
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