I like LBJ as a player and I’ve read some nice things he had done off court, but I agree that he can sometimes cross the line. These super athletes are very competitive, and bravado sometimes get the best of them. Muhammad Ali’s “ I am the greatest”..Floyd Mayweather’s claim being the GOAT, etc... part of the package, and I think sets them apart. Therefore I totally understand them and give them leeway, but at the same time won’t hold them as my champion when it comes to humility. I treat them as entertainers.
having said that, trash talking and calling them names won’t correct their ways.. I just enjoy what they bring into the table and ignore their annoying sides. I don’t trash talk athletes or politicians or entertainers publicly out of respect for people who idolize them. I just concentrate on what and why I like certain players or teams.
as for team jumping - I am ok with it and in my opinion should not lessen their legacy. Other great athletes have done the same, and never won a championship. I actually admire them for having the guts to control their destiny. If I don’t like my employer and does not agree with the direction the organization is going to, I would also change my working environment. A guy who knows his talent will not stick with his first job at McDo and should not be criticized if one day he becomes a great surgeon (because he did not stick with his first job).
in AD’s case - I thought his father had a big influence why he landed with the Lakers.. I don’t read as much negative comments about what Kawhi did last year, how he held the Raptors and the Lakers hostage till the very last minute of the trade deadline (and losing opportunities to pick good players available) while working quietly on getting PG who bolted out from his team way before the end of his contract (after Clippers failed to get KD). Basketball is a team game, even superstars and highly gifted players need very good team mates.Even the great Michael Jordan did not achieve much with the Bulls without Pippen, Rodman, etc... and was not able to bring the Wizards deep into the finals because he did not have enough supporting cast.
Back to team jumping - I decided to bring my young family from the Philippines to Canada when I was 24 yrs old because I did not like my environment and thought my family would have a better future in Canada. I’ve switched employers for personal advancement. Should I be considered a lesser man? also, we should keep in mind pro athletes get drafted and are forced to play with a team whether they like the team or not. I appreciate the fact that players are now more empowered to control their destiny, within the boundaries of the league.
