Much has been made about LeBron James’ plans for the final years of his career, but the Lakers are expected to be involved until the very end. Despite some rumblings to the contrary, The Athletic’s Jovan Buha recently confirmed that the King is still likely to retire as a Laker, whether it’s this summer or after his final contract.
“I do expect them to sign him to a 3-year max contract. There’s three things that can occur,” said Buha. “One: Three year extension. 2 years + player option. Two: Opt out and sign a 3-year extension without player option. Three: Opt out and sign with another team. I do expect him and LA to come to an agreement. I do think it’s most likely LeBron ends his career as a Laker.”
At 39 years old, the end is quickly approaching for James, and he probably only has a few years left before his career is all said and done. With the Lakers reeling and on the fast track to nowhere, many fans have raised doubts over whether LeBron really wants to end his career in such a dysfunctional situation.
But even with all their struggles, Los Angeles is probably the best place for LeBron right now. With Anthony Davis, he doesn’t have to worry about carrying the Lakers defensively, and he can save his strength where the Lakers need it most. Of course, living in Los Angeles has plenty of perks for an aspiring businessman like LeBron, who is already making a big name for himself in the world of business and entertainment.
With a player option for the 2024-25 campaign, LeBron can pick anywhere to go this summer if he opts out of his deal. But so far, there’s no indication that LeBron has any plans to leave, and most people agree that he’s better off staying put.
The Los Angeles Lakers Are Not Done Yet
Since winning the title in 2020, the Lakers have failed to remain competitive. In the months following their great victory, they let many of the guys go, who helped them win in the first place. As Davis and LeBron tried to elevate the team, they only crumbled under the pressure, and it’s been nothing but chaos from the inside.
From Russell Westbrook to Frank Vogel, the team endured many changes over the years, but now they are hoping to make one last push before it’s over.
No matter what happens this season, the Lakers have big plans to improve, and it starts this summer when various high-value free agents become available to sign. With the Lakers looking for anything to help improve, Pelinka is sure to be active in recruiting the best players possible.
Next season and beyond, the Lakers may be armed with another star and a revamped roster ready to wreak havoc in the West. But for now, they have to keep fighting to stay alive and to give themselves even a slimmer of a chance to make a deep postseason run. At 9th in the West, this may not be the year for success, but the Lakers have always been good at beating the odds, and who is to say they won’t do it again by winning when they least expect it?
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