LeBron James Reflects on Almost Pulling 'Eli Manning' Move on Draft Day

NBA superstar says he'll never demand a trade from the Lakers

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:20pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the overlapping perspectives and high-stakes decisions of an NBA draft or trade, using bold colors and angular shapes to capture the dynamic energy.A cubist interpretation of the complex decision-making process star athletes face on draft day and during trade negotiations.Los Angeles Today

In a recent interview, NBA legend LeBron James opened up about almost refusing to play for the team that drafted him, the Memphis Grizzlies, similar to how Eli Manning forced a trade from the San Diego Chargers in 2004. However, James says he will never demand a trade from the Los Angeles Lakers, the team he currently plays for.

Why it matters

LeBron James is one of the most influential and high-profile athletes in the world, so his comments about draft day decisions and trade demands carry significant weight. His willingness to play for the team that drafts him, unlike Eli Manning, sets an example for young athletes and highlights the different approaches star players can take when joining the professional ranks.

The details

During an appearance on the YouTube show "Bob Does Sports", James revealed that he had considered refusing to play for the Memphis Grizzlies if they had drafted him, similar to how Eli Manning forced a trade from the San Diego Chargers in 2004. However, James ultimately decided to embrace the opportunity with the Grizzlies. The NBA superstar also stated that he will never demand a trade from the Los Angeles Lakers, the team he currently plays for.

  • LeBron James made these comments in a recent interview that aired on April 2, 2026.

The players

LeBron James

A legendary NBA player who has spent the majority of his career with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Eli Manning

A former NFL quarterback who famously refused to play for the San Diego Chargers after they drafted him in 2004, forcing a trade to the New York Giants.

Memphis Grizzlies

An NBA team based in Memphis, Tennessee.

Los Angeles Lakers

The NBA team that LeBron James currently plays for.

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What they’re saying

“I might have pulled an Eli Manning back in the day, but I decided to embrace the opportunity with the Grizzlies.”

— LeBron James

“I'll never demand a trade from the Lakers. This is my team and I'm committed to winning more championships here.”

— LeBron James

The takeaway

LeBron James' comments highlight the different approaches star athletes can take when joining professional sports teams, with some like Eli Manning refusing to play for the team that drafts them, while others like James embrace the opportunity. James' loyalty to the Lakers sets an example for young athletes and shows the value of committing to the team that drafts you.