Donald Trump has sparred numerous times with US athletes over the past four years, especially NBA star LeBron James, who called on Black Americans to get out and vote.
Ther former NFL player, who ignited controversy in 2016 after kneeling during pre-game renditions of the US national anthem to draw attention to racial injustice, said protesters had been left with no choice after the police killing of George Floyd.
"We've all played our whole life on the playgrounds and pickup games without fans being there. So basketball players will adjust, trust me," former NBA star and part-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team says.
David Stern, who masterminded the NBA's growth into a global sports powerhouse while serving as commissioner from 1984 to 2014, died after suffering a brain hemorrhage last month. He was 77.
His dramatic announcement came after a disappointing campaign which saw the once-mighty Los Angeles franchise fail to make the playoffs for a sixth consecutive year.
The blockbuster deal means the four-time NBA Most Valuable Player, will now join one of the league's most iconic clubs, adding to the legacy of such legends as Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson.
Kobe Bryant carries Lakers to comeback victory scoring 60 in final game of his NBA career
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