LOS ANGELES — The Golden State Warriors went all-in … kinda.
The Los Angeles Lakers seemingly stay in that mode … kinda sorta.
Circumstances presented the Lakers with an opportunity to play the ultimate long game, with an offer they couldn’t refuse while the Warriors had to make a gamble on Jimmy Butler that in ordinary circumstances they might not have.
That explains this wacky NBA season, its wild trade deadline and perhaps a crazy, winding route to June.
LeBron James expects to be there every year while Stephen Curry seems to hope for it, without the outward or passive-aggressive pressure.