Like every summer, LeBron James’ future is in question once again. Due to his age and constant short-term contracts, the NBA world is always left wondering what he will do next. Will he stay in LA or skip town? Or will he hang up his boots altogether? Even though LeBron has exercised his $52.6 million player option for next season, there are speculations that he could request for a trade in the coming weeks as Lakers shift their focus to building around Luka Doncic.
However, amid the escalating rumors, veteran insider Chris Haynes confirmed that the four-time champ does not want out of LA just yet. Turns out, Haynes got on a private call with LeBron’s agent Rich Paul, who revealed key details about his future, “He basically wanted me to inform the masses, inform the public that LeBron James has not requested a trade. LeBron James did not ask for an extension.”
Yes, contrary to the speculations, LBJ has not requested Pelinka for a trade following his player option opt in. “He said LeBron James understands where the Lakers are at in trying to support and build around Luka Doncic. He wanted me to make it clear that LeBron James believes he still can play at a high level for a few more years and that’s what he wants to do.” Haynes remarked. Despite being the oldest active player in the league, James continues to defy Father Time. Last season, he averaged 24.4 points and over eight assists, which is unheard of for a 40-year-old.
So, even though LBJ knows Luka is the Lakers’ future, he believes he can continue to play a pivotal role on a title contending team. That’s why he also has a stern demand if he stays in LA, per Haynes, “He wants to be prioritized as well alongside the young curve that they’re trying to do… That’s the interesting conundrum that the Lakers have but as of right now, NO, LeBron has not sought to go elsewhere.” That means Pelinka will be tasked with a massive challenge of keeping LeBron satisfied amid his title aspirations while also adding the right complementary pieces around Doncic to secure the franchise’s future. Looks like the GM has made his priorities clear with his latest decision.
LeBron James’ consultation reportedly no longer required by Lakers as trade rumors spark interest from four teams
While LeBron clearly wants to be prioritized amid Lakers’ vision to build around Luka, for Pelinka, future seems to be the top priority. For the last seven years, the GM has made every move keeping LBJ as the focal point, likely even consulting him before every crucial decision. But this offseason is different. Per Ramona Shelburne, Lakers are “not consulting with LeBron this year” about the team’s roster moves.
Sure, if James decides to stay, he will remain the secondary superstar alongside Doncic because of his undeniable impact. But Pelinka is not building his roster keeping him in mind because no one knows how long James has left in the league. At 40-years-old on an expiring contract, he could skip town anytime he wants. And the GM likely does not want to rely on that uncertainty, especially when teams have already begun inquiring about James.
Turns out, Rich Paul told Dave McMenamin that “four teams have contacted him wanting to talk trade.” Although the agent did not have any substantive conversation with any of them, it’s clear that organizations will pounce on the opportunity to acquire LeBron if he becomes available. Even a return to Cleveland is on the table according to some analysts. While Haynes made it clear that LeBron has not requested a trade yet, the situation could change in the coming weeks as the four-time champ continues to assess his future amid the closing window of winning another title. Do you think James will suit up for the Lakers next season?
