James spoke to the media before his team’s game against the Washington Wizards Tuesday night, and he was asked several questions about the Magic’s trades. John Townsend of Truth About It transcribed the quotes.
Here’s what James said about the Magic re-acquiring Turk:
“I’ve thought that it was surprising when Turk (Hedo Turkoglu) wasn’t brought back the year after they beat us [Cleveland Cavaliers]. I just thought what Turk created for their team, that point-four created everything. He always created a mismatch and that was part of the reason why they beat us. There were times I would switch off onto Turk and they would go to Rashard (Lewis). Sometimes I would go on Rashard and they would go to Turk. We were too small on the perimeter during those years … I know they’re happy to have him back.”
James had some battles with the Wizards in the middle of the decade, and he knows what type of player Arenas is and can be.
Here’s what he said about Arenas:
“Just a few years back, he was an MVP candidate. Injuries and off-the-court issues have plagued his career the last few years. Do we know if he’s going to get back to an MVP-type feel? We don’t, but he’s a great player and we had some great battles, definitely.”
And LeBron knows a thing or two but getting acclimated with new players.
“It’s going to take time [for Orlando to find its form] — any time you add new guys. They added a lot, so it’s going to take time for them to come together. They’ll be able to do it, but it will take some time. It won’t be easy early.”