Ever since the first-round exit in the 2024 NBA Playoffs, all eyes have been on the Lakers regarding what lies ahead for them, and especially LeBron James. Now, even after James picked up his $52.6 million player option for his 23rd season in the NBA, his future with the Lakers is not secure, as he is reportedly viewed as just another expiring contract and a potential trade piece.
Following this report of the Lakers viewing James as a trade piece, the Phoenix Sports Radio Host John Gambadoro, who is known to have some sources close to the league, claimed that James and the Lakers are on the same page about finding him a new trade destination.
“I was told this after the playoffs by someone close to Lebron- said “Lebron wants out of LA and they want him gone. “Watch Game 1, how disinterested Lebron was.” Now, MOST people on here know that my sources are not the 6 degrees of Kevin Bacon.”
Whether or not James actually wants out of LA is still unknown, but veteran sources have claimed that we may have seen the last of LeBron James in a Lakers jersey. The 40-year-old star still averaged All-Star and All-NBA caliber numbers on the team last season, with 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds in 70 games played in the regular season alone. Yet his financial demands severely hinder the growth of the Lakers as they look to rebuild a long-term team around Luka Doncic.
LeBron James And Austin Reaves Reportedly Don’t Like Playing With Luka Doncic
According to John Gambadoro, Austin Reaves and LeBron James are not fond of playing alongside Luka Doncic. This may be the potential reason why Reaves is holding out on signing a four-year extension with the team, and James is rumored to be asking for a trade.
When disputed online, Gambadoro defended his sources and claimed his 29 years of experience should give some credibility to his sources.
“Boy, you would think after 29 years of doing the show, I may have gotten to know some people SMH”
Just a few days ago, James’ agent Rich Paul revealed that he acknowledges the team’s future is to build around Luka Doncic, but James wants to contend for a championship. In between the lines, what wasn’t said but was interpreted by all NBA fans is: Lakers are in a rebuild, and James wants to win. Since the Lakers are not in the position to win now, is this the end of James’ time in LA?
If James demands a trade out of the Lakers, where do you think he will land? Let us know in the comments section.
