After all the trade buzz passed over in the offseason, LeBron James was widely considered an untouchable asset for the Los Angeles Lakers heading into the 2025-26 season. In light of how impactful he has been, the Purple and Gold may have benefited from this decision.
However, while noting recent rumors about Jeanie Buss‘ intentions on trading LeBron James in 2022, along with reports suggesting some friction between the two, the situation doesn’t appear as simple.
Although Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul and Buss have been quick to deny these claims, the ball seems to have been set in motion.
NBA insider Chris Haynes recently addressed this matter, suggesting that the sudden rise in trade rumors involving LeBron James may be indicative of a potential trade in the works.
Even at 41, LeBron James remains an integral member of L.A.’s rotation. While averaging 22.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game, James has asserted his ability to contribute to winning.
Given that several NBA teams could improve their chances of making a title push by acquiring him, we explore four potential landing spots for the Lakers’ superstar.
Golden State Warriors
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: LeBron James
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Jimmy Butler, 2028 first-round pick, 2032 first-round pick
For all intents and purposes, this is effectively a swap deal between the Lakers and the Golden State Warriors. While the Lakers would be giving up on contending this season, since Jimmy Butler’s injury will keep him sidelined for an extended period, this trade could help the Warriors revive their title hopes.
Due to Butler’s absence, Golden State fields a shorthanded superstar rotation. While Stephen Curry has been phenomenal, given the team’s 25-20 record (eighth in the West), it is clear that his contributions aren’t enough.
With LeBron James’s addition, the Warriors would experience a major boost to their roster strength. The four-time NBA champion boasts one of the highest basketball IQs the game has ever seen. When additionally factoring in his fit next to Curry and Draymond Green, along with his ability to fill in for Butler on the offensive end, Golden State would be more than willing to do this trade.
The secondary benefit of this trade scenario stems from the Warriors’ approach toward Jonathan Kuminga.
With the Butler’s absence being addressed with this deal, Golden State could find a trade for Kuminga that would bring in valuable rotation pieces to fit alongside James and Curry. If the Warriors succeed in this endeavor, they would undoubtedly become a threat in the West again.
While this trade idea has merit, it only serves the Warriors. Given that it would leave the Lakers in a vulnerable position this season and a majority of the next season, the Purple and Gold may not be inclined to accept this offer.
New York Knicks
Proposed Trade Details
New York Knicks Receive: LeBron James
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: OG Anunoby, Mitchell Robinson, 2031 first-round pick
A trade with the New York Knicks may have the best chance of happening, primarily due to LeBron James’ interest in playing for a big market team. Given that a trade to the Knicks was teased in the offseason as well, this scenario may have a more solid foundation.
For the Lakers, this trade could be quite promising. Acquiring an elite two-way wing in OG Anunoby, along with a reliable defensive big man in Mitchell Robinson, could prove immensely worthwhile, especially when packaged with a first-rounder.
Anunoby’s averages of 15.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game, along with his shot-creation and three-point shooting skills, may be quite appealing to the Lakers. Given that he would have a larger role on both ends of the floor in L.A., the Purple and Gold may benefit from adding him to the roster.
Meanwhile, Robinson is averaging 4.8 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. Given Los Angeles’ dire need for a backup big man with defensive upside, the Lakers could be satisfied with his acquisition.
While this trade has merit for the Lakers, acquiring a player like LeBron James could help the Knicks revive their season. After posting a 3-7 record over their last 10 games, including a four-game losing streak, it is abundantly clear that New York needs to make changes.
James’ arrival essentially solidifies the Knicks’ starting lineup. Given his skill set, the 41-year-old is capable of taking some pressure off Jalen Brunson while simultaneously helping New York sustain its offensive production.
While this is largely positive, the Knicks would primarily rely on James’ championship pedigree and experience to play a bigger role during the playoffs. As one of the greatest playoff performers of all time, James’ addition could effectively see New York over the hump, improving the team’s chances of ending its title drought.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Proposed Trade Details
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: LeBron James
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: De’Andre Hunter, Jarrett Allen, Sam Merrill, 2030 first-round pick
Sending LeBron James back to Cleveland for a reunion tour in the final years of his career seems poetic. But considering the benefits of this move, both teams may see the value in making this deal.
This deal would require the Cavs to part with several rotation players, including their starting center Jarrett Allen. Still, acquiring James could be just what Cleveland needs to turn things around.
The Cavaliers currently sit fifth in the East with a 25-20 record. While recent performances have helped improve their position, given that they were the best team in the East last season, their current situation isn’t very promising.
James’ acquisition gives Cleveland the versatile wing it needs to bring out the best in its players. With his playmaking, the superstar could be capable of increasing the production of Evan Mobley, as well as Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland.
Although Allen’s departure could leave the big man rotation relatively thinner, the boost to the starting lineup could help Cleveland assert itself as a contender in the East again.
For the Lakers, this deal addresses every key roster issue they have. De’Andre Hunter has established himself as a capable two-way wing, averaging 13.9 points and 4.4 rebounds per game.
Meanwhile, Allen is an athletic big man with rebounding upside, boasting averages of 13.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, 0.9 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game. Even Sam Merrill has developed into a lethal perimeter threat, posting averages of 13.8 points on 45.5% shooting from three-point range.
With all their roster issues being addressed, the Purple and Gold may see the benefit of pulling the trigger on this trade.
Miami Heat
Proposed Trade Details
Miami Heat Receive: LeBron James
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Nikola Jovic, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Simone Fontecchio, 2029 first-round pick
A trade with the Miami Heat is the least likely to happen, mainly because of the poor relationship between LeBron James and Pat Riley. However, it is hard to overlook the benefits of this trade for both teams.
Acquiring Andrew Wiggins has been a priority for the Lakers since the offseason. For the 2025-26 season, Wiggins is averaging 15.9 points and 4.9 rebounds per game while shooting 46.7% from the field and 39.9% from three-point range.
Given his skill set, the forward fits perfectly next to Luka Doncic while boosting L.A.’s perimeter defense.
Along with Wiggins, the Lakers would be acquiring capable role players in Nikola Jovic, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Simone Fontecchio. Due to the sheer number of incoming players, L.A. may be forced to waive some players, but retaining Jovic and Jaquez as bench pieces may have value.
Jovic’s versatility as an offensive player is intriguing. Although his averages of 8.2 points and 3.7 rebounds per game this season don’t inspire much, his potential is worth investing in. Similarly, Jaquez brings a lot to the table with his multi-level scoring skills. Given that he is averaging 15.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game, his ability to contribute could be a huge boost for L.A.
This trade may leave Miami’s rotation thin, but with the addition of LeBron James, the Heat gain a franchise legend capable of helping them make a playoff push.
The Heat have struggled with consistency this season, but adding James could help address that. With his experience and playmaking ability, the 41-year-old is capable of bringing out the best in Miami’s players. Considering that he wouldn’t be burdened with scoring, James could be even more lethal when surrounded by shooters like Norman Powell and Tyler Herro.
Will The Lakers Trade LeBron James?
Although there is considerable chatter around the league about a potential trade involving LeBron James, when factoring in his no-trade clause, the likelihood of such a deal being made is quite low.
Given the Lakers’ roster makeup, it is abundantly clear that the team faces a dire need for bench depth. Since the profiles of ideal trade targets have been identified as two-way wings and defensive-minded big men, it is unlikely that any trade for such players would involve James.
Instead, the Purple and Gold may see players like Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Jarred Vanderbilt on the trade block. While the team’s abundance of expiring contracts could help facilitate a trade, considering that teams are more interested in Austin Reaves, the Purple and Gold may need to get creative during negotiations.
