On Wednesday, when the New Orleans Pelicans host the Los Angeles Lakers for their first matchup of the season, Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram and Josh Hart will see a few familiar faces — the most notable being LeBron James.
The trio of former Lakers only spent one disappointing season with James in Los Angeles, but they formed a good relationship during their short stint together in spite of the 10-year age gap between them. In fact, ahead of the Lakers’ matchup with the Pelicans on Wednesday, James took some time to show respect to his former teammates, telling Kyle Goon of the OC Register that he’s happy Ball, Hart and Ingram are enjoying success in New Orleans:
James didn’t acknowledge any awkwardness between him and his former teammates, saying it would be “great” to play against them.
“All three of them have been put into a much better situation and they’ve taken advantage of it,” he said. “So it sucks to see some of your teammates go, then when you see them flourish and be able to get a new beginning, you’re super excited for them and proud of what they’re doing.”
As nice as that is of James to say, it’s unclear if they feel the same way about James, who had a hand in orchestrating Davis’ move to Los Angeles and, coincidentally, Ball, Ingram and Hart’s move to New Orleans. Regardless of whether or not they’re all still on good terms, James and the Lakers are going to some inspired play from Ball, Ingram and Hart because of the trade.
Tip-off is at 6:30 p.m. on ESPN.
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