NBA: Walton optimistic after first meeting with LeBron

LeBron James was not only in Las Vegas this weekend to watch the Los Angeles Lakers in the Summer League. The four-time MVP also met for the first time with his new coach Luke Walton.

James had only exchanged text messages with Walton since his decision for the Lakers on July 1 because he was on holiday in Europe. Walton was not involved in his decision making process, James had only met with Lakers President Magic Johnson before deciding to move to Los Angeles.

Now, however, he has met Walton, who was drafted just like James in 2003, for the first time, and he then expressed optimism to ESPN: “He’s about the team. He wants to do things right and wants to win,” Walton said. “With these qualities I can work.”

Walton has spoken to several former James coaches, including Cavs coach Tyronn Lue and heat coach Erik Spoelstra, about the superstar and sought advice over the past few weeks.

James, 33, moved to the Lakers in early July for four years and $153.3 million.