Dave McMenaminJan 14, 2026, 03:17 AM ETCloseLakers and NBA reporter for ESPN. Covered the Lakers and NBA for ESPNLosAngeles. com from 2009-14, the Cavaliers from 2014-18 for ESPN. com and the NBA for NBA. com from 2005-09. Follow on XEmailPrintOpen Extended ReactionsLOS ANGELES -- LeBron James cleared the air following the Lakers' 141-116 win over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday, separating himself from the opinion of his agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, who said that L. A. should trade fan favorite Austin Reaves."I think you all know by now, Rich is his own man and what Rich says is not a direct reflection of me and how I feel," James told ESPN on his way out of Crypto. com Arena.