LeBron James’ future with the Los Angeles Lakers remains unclear, but he looks bought into a lesser role to help the team with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves shouldering the offense.
Accepting a lighter workload has benefited the 41-year-old greatly, as he appeared rejuvenated while leading L.A. to a nine-game winning streak. However, the conversation remains as to whether he will ultimately return to the Lakers, but the door certainly appears open to a departure. The Golden State Warriors, according to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, could be a real threat to land him:
The Warriors are likewise routinely described by rival teams as one of the few credible destinations for LeBron James’ 24th NBA campaign if James and the Lakers indeed part ways after eight seasons together. “It has some legs,” one league source of the LeBron link to the Warriors.
How Golden State would be able to pull off a move of this caliber remains to be seen, but they would have to shed considerable salary. Notably, Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler come to mind with their massive salary numbers.
Although it is hard to imagine a team trading for Butler, who is 36-years-old, coming off an ACL tear. An upside to trading for the former Miami Heat star is that he would be a massive $56.8 million expiring contract, which is a valuable asset in today’s NBA.
Meanwhile, Green, also 36-years-old, has a contract that expires after the 2026-27 season a5 $27.6 million. Should Golden State create enough space to sign James, building a contender around two aging stars with Stephen Curry, feels like a Hail Mary.
LeBron James not taking playing with Bronny for granted
A move to keep LeBron James happy with the Lakers was drafting his son, Bronny James in 2024. The former USC Trojan was clearly a project and needed time to develop to turn into an NBA player.
Since spending considerable time in the G League with the South Bay Lakers, Bronny looks way more confident and comfortable. The 21-year-old recently played next to his father on Friday against the Brooklyn Nets, which featured the first father-son assist in NBA history.
LeBron accomplished plenty through his 20-plus seasons, but playing with his oldest son presumably ranks at the top, as he is not taking this opportunity for granted.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!
