“LeBron James is going to start making big-money movies”: How Bill Simmons’ predictions about the Lakers star in 2005 turned out to be true

Bill Simmons, former NBA writer and host of The Bill Simmons Podcast predicted in 2005 how LeBron James’ future would turn out.

The San Antonio Spurs beat the Detriot Pistons 4-3 in 7 games, in an enthralling 2005 NBA Finals. Not even a week after the Spurs’ win, Bill Simmons took out a guide highlighting the various trade values various players hold and more.

LeBron James had just wrapped a fantastic sophomore year in the NBA. He had averaged 27.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, 7.2 assists, and 2.2 steals per game in just his second season in the league.

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Bill Simmons had put LeBron James #4 on his list. He believed LBJ deserved the top spot, but his situation in Cleveland didn’t let him get there.

Bill Simmons predicts how the career of LeBron James will turn out

All the way back in 2005, Bill Simmons had written this about a 20-year-old LBJ.

“In LeBron’s case, he’s the best young player in the history of the league – both statistically and aesthetically – as well as someone destined to become the biggest superstar in any professional sport (maybe ever).”

“He’s going to accomplish things that we didn’t think were possible anymore – averaging a triple-double for an entire season, leading the league in scoring and assists, stuff like that.”

“Eventually, he’s going to start “making big-money movies” (translation: play for one of the league’s marquee franchises, either the Knicks or the Lakers), if only because it’s in the best financial interest of everyone involved (and I mean, everyone).”

“That’s his destiny, and that’s how this will play out. There’s no other way. If the Cavs were smart, they would trade him now. But this is the same franchise that gainfully employed Jim Paxson. So anything’s possible.”

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Even though LBJ was just 2 years into his now 18-year career, Bill Simmons had the right picture about him. Bill Simmons and his views are not regarded much now and are often regarded as far-fetched, but the man did not make a wrong call with LeBron James.

He is one of the biggest superstars ever in sports history. He did move to Los Angeles, to join the Lakers. The only regard where LBJ fell short is averaging a triple-double for the season.