While the overwhelming majority of Los Angeles Lakers fans are thrilled with LeBron James' signing, there is obviously a small section of the fanbase that wants him to earn their loyalty. But LeBron isn't too worried about earning the loyalty and respect of the fan base.
Reporter: How do you expect to earn the loyalty and respect of the LA fan base?
Lakers’ LeBron James: “Me? Huh? I signed a four-year deal, what more do you want me to do?” pic.twitter.com/bQuyDNUQSZ— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) September 25, 2018
LeBron responded to this question (via Ben Golliver of Sports Illustrated):
Article Continues Below“Me? Huh? I signed a four-year deal, what more do you want me to do? Listen I signed a four-year deal. I'm here so I know what I bring to the table and the floor.”
James is at a stage in his career where he knows he doesn't have much to prove to any of his doubters or haters. That's not to say that he's any less motivated to win. But it's quite clear that he doesn't worry about silly things like earning the respect of the Los Angeles fanbase.
Obviously this something weighing heavy on James' mind and it won't be weighing on the minds of even the most — stubborn of Lakers fans (looking at you Kobe Stans). Once James is putting up triple-doubles and leading the Lakers back to the playoffs, the ridiculous fans who demand he earns their respect will tuck their tails between their legs and purchase their No. 23 James jerseys.
The notion that James needs to prove himself to anyone at this point in his career is downright silly. He's firmly cemented his status as one of the greatest players in the history of the game and Lakers fans should be grateful that they get to watch him for the next four years.