LeBron James Ushered In The Player Empowerment Era

For better or for worse, LeBron James changed the entire “power structure” between NBA franchises and professional basketball players.

James’ formation of the Miami Heat super-team of the early 2010’s, the moves to bring Anthony Davis to the Los Angeles Lakers, and even to ensure Kevin Love was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers illustrate how he almost singlehandedly shifted the dynamics between NBA franchises having power over their players (exemplified by Chicago Bulls’ General Manager Jerry Krause breaking up the greatest dynasty in NBA history) to current players dictating both their own professional destinies, and those of NBA franchises as well.