Lebron probably requested the buy out. Makes no sense otherwise abd Bron has a history of trading away possible starting SFs on his team (see Wiggins for Love).
Not sure “starting small forward” has anything to do with it. Weird example too. Although you’re right that Lebron likely had a say and it had to do with planting the seed of a second max contract in the future.
If LeBron felt that Deng would help them, he would be on the Lakers still. I wouldn't want anything to do with him personally because he doesn't keep his mouth shut.
I couldn't believe they allowed him to GM when he first signed, and I am in awe at just how much worse he is than I expected. I bet they want to fire him but he's the only reason Butler might stay. What a dump.
To be fair, signing Rose, potentially Deng/Noah for vet minimum is no big deal. Low risk high reward moves, Rose played very well against us in the playoffs last year too. The problem is the bigger moves, like salvaging their future for Butler who's about to bolt, signing Teague/Gibson to large contracts.
