Even before Los Angeles Lakers fans got a glimpse of what Talen Horton-Tucker can do, LeBron James already knew of his potential the first time he saw the 20-year-old play. In fact, LeBron was so impressed, he told his agent Rich Paul to keep his eye out on Horton-Tucker.

In a conference call with the media, LeBron shared that he first saw Horton-Tucker some four years ago. THT was still in high school, playing for Chicago's Simeon Career Academy.

“I saw him about three and half, four years ago. I was watching a high school basketball game and I happened to catch Simeon playing. And I told our agent at the time—it’s now Talen’s agent, Rich Paul—that he needs to take a look at this kid Talen Horton-Tucker that’s at Simeon. I think the kid is super talented. This was like four years ago.”

Peep the interview clip below per Ryan Ward of Lakers Daily.

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Come the 2019 NBA Draft, Horton-Tucker was selected 46th overall by the Orlando Magic. But he was immediately acquired by the Lakers via trade in exchange for a 2020 second round draft pick and cash considerations. Was it a coincidence? Or did LeBron whisper a little something to the ear of general manager Rob Pelinka?

Despite limited action last season, Horton-Tucker proved why the Lakers got him, even providing valuable contributions off the bench in the NBA Playoffs. His recent 33-point outburst in their preseason game against the Los Angeles Clippers could be a sign of good things to come from the athletic wingman.