LeBron James’ future with the Los Angeles Lakers continues to spiral into a fog of uncertainty, as new reports indicate the four-time NBA champion may have wanted out of L.A. long before this offseason began. The speculation intensified after Howard Beck appeared on The Lowe Post podcast with Zach Lowe and hinted that James’ desire to leave the Lakers predates recent headlines.
“He is either doing what he’s always done and putting pressure on a front office — he’s done this everywhere he’s been or, I guess there’s an alternative version here where he truly does want out. I have not talked to anybody yet who, I take that back.”
“One person said not only does he want out, but he’s wanted out predating this. I don’t want to go say how far back it was. I don’t know if that’s true or not.”
The whispers about James being unhappy in Los Angeles gained real traction the moment he opted into his massive $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season.
While the move initially appeared to be a signal of loyalty to the Lakers, his agent Rich Paul soon muddied the waters by hinting that Los Angeles needs to “win now,” otherwise LeBron could move on. That line alone sent the rumor mill into overdrive.
The Cavaliers were immediately thrust into the spotlight when Bill Simmons floated the idea of a three-team deal to bring LeBron back to Cleveland. However, the logistics around the Cavaliers’ cap situation, being deep into the second apron, made such a move nearly impossible. They would have had to give up three major pieces to even make the money work, and Cleveland’s interest eventually cooled.
Then came the Dallas Mavericks rumors, which flared up before quickly fizzling out. The Mavs reportedly had interest only if LeBron was bought out not traded which was never realistic.
Meanwhile, James reportedly grew frustrated watching the Lakers make offseason decisions without his input. For the first time in his career, LeBron appears to have little influence over a team’s direction.
According to multiple insiders, at least four teams have quietly inquired about LeBron’s availability, and the New York Knicks may have been one of them. They were even rumored to be reading a package involving assets from the Knicks. Yet, no serious trade framework has emerged.
Things escalated further when LeBron visited Cleveland last week. Photos of him wearing a “Welcome Home” cap at a local golf course and working out in the Cavaliers’ facility sent social media into a frenzy. However, James dismissed the noise, reminding everyone that he’s trained in Cleveland during past offseasons as well.
Despite the theatrics, the most glaring reality is that there’s barely a trade market for LeBron James, even if he wants out. His age (41 next season), massive salary, and the uncertainty of his long-term commitment have made rival teams hesitant.
The Lakers, meanwhile, are reportedly open to moving him, viewing his expiring contract as a potential trade asset rather than a long-term piece.
Whether this ends in a shocking split or another calculated pressure tactic, the tension is real. For the first time, the idea of LeBron James getting traded is no longer outlandish.
