“He’s not interested in being your mentor and trying to teach you how to play basketball” - Colin Cowherd defends LeBron James’ lack of interest towards draft picks, says Lakers forward has "senioritis"

LeBron James' chance to reunite with Kyrie Irving took a hit after the LA Lakers reportedly declined to give up future draft picks to sign the Brooklyn Nets guard.

The Lakers are reported to be the only team actively pursuing Irving. Although the Brooklyn Nets have reportedly rejected a sign-and-trade involving Russell Westbrook, they could agree to a deal if several future picks are included. The Lakers, however, are unwilling to give up any draft picks despite James reportedly in favor of such a deal.

On "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," Colin Cowherd expressed his support for James. He believes the four-time NBA champion has never sought to play with future stars.

"There was a story this morning that LeBron doesn't care about the Lakers picks amid the Kyrie Irving rumor. In fairness to LeBron, he's never been into young guys."

Cowherd went on to point out instances where James joined teams and pushed them to trade away future prospects for players who could help him win immediately.

"In fairness to LeBron, he's never been like, 'I want to play with a 19-year-old and watch him develop for four years.' LeBron got business to do, like winning titles. He's not interested in being your mentor and how to teach you to play basketball out of Michigan State or Kansas or Kentucky.

"So, I'll defend LeBron on not caring about the draft pick. He never really has. The truth is it is called 'senioritis.'"

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LeBron James is only interested in playing with 1 future star

Bronny James of the Sierra Canyon Trailblazers is greeted by his father and NBA player LeBron James

Although James has always partnered with players who were capable of delivering instant success, that might change soon. He has explicitly stated that he wants to play with his son Bronny in the NBA.

If that does happen, James and Bronny will be the first father-son duo to play in the NBA at the same time. Bronny will be eligible for the 2023 NBA draft, the same year his father becomes a free agent.

For now, James' focus will be on leading the Lakers to another title next season.