Brockman: LeBron James is 'gonna be a non-factor this season'

Even after 23 outstanding seasons in the NBA, LeBron James continues to have his share of detractors. He continued to play at a high level this past season in his final go-around with the Los Angeles Lakers, but there are those who are convinced that the 41-year-old is actually on his last legs.

As the world awaits for him to choose a new team in free agency, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves are thought to be the teams with the best chance of landing him. There is an argument that if he goes to the Heat and joins Giannis Antetokounmpo there, they would instantly become championship contenders.

But Chris Brockman, the producer of "The Rich Eisen Show," isn't feeling that optimism. He said that the Heat with James would be merely a play-in tournament team and that the future Hall of Famer will be a "non-factor" this coming season. James then reacted with a series of laughing emojis on social media, per ESPN Cleveland.

“If he goes to Miami, enjoy the play-in tournament,” Brockman stated. “... Bron’s gonna be a non-factor this season. I think everyone needs to like, ready themselves.”

The Heat have the framework of what looks like a legitimate contender. Alongside Antetokounmpo, they have three-time All-Star big man Bam Adebayo, two-way wing Andrew Wiggins and starting point guard Davion Mitchell. They also added wing Tim Hardaway Jr., who averaged 13.5 points and shot 40.7% from 3-point range last season with the Denver Nuggets, and they also received veteran big man Bobby Portis from the Milwaukee Bucks along with Antetokounmpo.

James could arguably be the last big piece they would need to become an elite team. But critics could argue that Miami would still need a little more depth, especially at the guard and wing spots.

The four-time MVP averaged 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists a game as the Los Angeles Lakers' third scoring option this past season. He upped his scoring in the first round of the playoffs with Luka Doncic injured as the Lakers upset the Houston Rockets in six games.

He may not be what he was a few years ago, but he should still have plenty of value to offer his next team.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Brockman: LeBron James is 'gonna be a non-factor this season'