The NBA is doing whatever it can to maximize revenues. Which is why the vote for the play-in tournament was 30-0.
Players complaining about the play-in tournament once they think they might have to actually play in it is pretty silly.
Oh, I agree that's why they're doing it and I think it's ultimately a good idea. Fans of at least a few teams that would probably be tanking right now, have a reason to keep watching and attending games. More fan interest means more revenue.
Added revenue aside, I think it may also help to curb some of the tanking and it gives the league more ground to stand on if they decide to start punishing teams for tanking. They can say "We've created another path to get in and you still want to tank?"
My only issue with Lebron saying what he said is that he apparently said something different when the Lakers weren't looking at the possibility of having to actually play in it. If his opinion was consistent, I really wouldn't care what he thought about it. Say what you want about it, but be consistent.
Even if he has changed his opinion, for whatever reason, then say you've changed your opinion and why. Don't just say someone should lose their job over something you originally had no problem with.