yahoo
During the NBA preseason, one of the most talked-about topics has been LeBron James and his helicopter commutes in and out of Philadelphia. After he joined the Sixers, many assumed the superstar might purchase a home in the city, but he has instead opted to travel back and forth from New York. Even for a billionaire, regular helicopter rides aren't more economical than simply buying a good house.
A report from Front Office Sports disclosed that these rides are actually part of a deal James has with Fanatics, the company founded by Michael Rubin, a former Sixers owner. Unsurprisingly, Pablo Torre is now investigating the story to determine whether everything is above board.
Torre, who has been following the LeBron James-Fanatics story closely, revealed that he is receiving tips from NBA owners. His previous work exposing the Los Angeles Clippers' salary cap circumvention to pay Kawhi Leonard was the biggest NBA story of the past year. Despite considerable pushback, he was ultimately vindicated when Steve Ballmer, the Clippers, and Leonard were all penalized by the league.
Torre is frequently asked what his next major investigation will be. He hinted on social media that he is keeping an eye on the LeBron situation. In a recent interview, he confirmed as much and shared additional details.
"Yeah, I mean that's a story I commend you guys for being on top of," Torre told Front Office Sports. "It's something that I also have been watching. Of course, I know that Fanatics logo. I saw that. I was also a little mad I didn't get to get that one first. On that story specifically, I will say that we are very interested. We are, of course, looking into all of the ways that is both a good story as well as something of interest to the league. By the way, it may not be the latter but it does appear to be the former, as a business story. We are also getting tips from NBA owners. Who are like, sending me your story, being like, 'What is this?' Because now I'm the guy who seems to be a lever on something like accountability. Even among billionaires, which is a fun plot twist."
It remains unclear whether there is anything actually suspicious about the transaction. Nothing so far has suggested any wrongdoing. However, with Torre on the case, he has proven that he can be extremely determined when it comes to uncovering and sharing every detail.
Key Analysis
Torre's involvement adds a layer of scrutiny to James' helicopter arrangement, especially given his track record. The fact that NBA owners are feeding him tips suggests that the story may have broader implications for league business. While no evidence of impropriety has emerged, Torre's determination could lead to further revelations.
Originally reported by yahoo.