NBA fans are now connecting the dots and trying to find an explanation forLeBron Jamespotential retirement. As some of us might be aware,the Kingand the Los Angeles Lakers were eliminated by the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals.
Considering that it was coming upon three years since they were eliminated by the Phoenix Suns in the first round, there was a lot of pressure on the Lakers. While they certainly exceeded expectations, they were unable to go all the way and get the job done.
In the aftermath of being eliminated, LeBron shared that he wasn t sure about his future andcareerin the league. Although this makes sense considering his advancing age, fans are theorizing that there could be another reason why. With that being said, let us take a closer look and find out more about this situation.
Fans opine that LeBron James wants to retire due to the new NBA flopping rules
While this might seem like a bizarre reason for wanting to leave the NBA, some fans are under the impression that the new rules the NBA plans to bring into effect might have played a role in LeBron hinting at retirement. To those who do not know, the league is facing an epidemic of flops.
Flops are when players exaggerate motions of contact in order to hopefully secure a favorable call from the referee. Even LeBron has been caught multiple times on camera and mocked for his tendency to do the same. However, the new rule that might come into play would mean the opposition would be awarded a free throw after the referee assess a technical foul on the player engaging in flopping.
Sources: The NBA s Competition Committee is discussing potential of in-game penalty for flops that would result in technical foul free throw. Trial is possible at Summer League in July.
Sources: The NBA s Competition Committee is discussing potential of in-game penalty for flops that would result in technical foul free throw. Trial is possible at Summer League in July.
Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 25, 2023
Some fans decided to cite this update as a potential reason for LeBron s desire to retire,This is the real reason Lebron is retiring. Many also voiced approval for this new rule and declared that it was well overdue and should be implemented well.
This is the real reason Lebron is retiring.
R33VO (@TRAPHAGRID) May 25, 2023
It s about time the NBA took some action against flopping. It s frustrating for fans to watch players fake injuries or fouls. Hopefully, this new in-game penalty will make the game more exciting and fair.
UBET Sports (@UBET__Sports) May 25, 2023
On paper sounds fantastic, but it s one of those rules that leaves a lot of room for ref interpretation and inconsistency. Just gotta find the right balance.
Rob Kimbell (@RobKSports) May 25, 2023
There is no denying that LeBron has tried to get away with the occasional flop or two every now and then. However, saying that not being able to do so any more would be a reason to retire is quite nonsensical. There are clearly far more important reasons forKing Jamescontemplations about walking away from the sport.