LeBron James exercised his $52.6 million option to remain with the Lakers, but despite his no-trade clause and hefty salary, multiple teams continue to quietly inquire about trading for him.
After picking up his $52.6 million player option before free agency began, LeBron James looks set to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers for at least another season.
Still, that hasn't stopped rival teams from calling to explore the possibility of a trade for the 40-year-old NBA legend.
"It's one of the biggest topics of conversation around the league," ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst reported. "The concept of a trade is not impossible — nothing is impossible in the NBA after the Luka Doncic trade — but it is unlikely due to James' large salary and his no-trade clause.
"There were a few inquiries from eyebrow-raised teams, sources said, just to gauge whether this was something or nothing," ESPN added. "For now, there is no action. But it is surely being monitored."
ESPN didn't specify which teams reached out, though at least four have reportedly checked in.
Credit AP - Scanpix
After LeBron exercised his option, his agent Rich Paul released a statement emphasizing that James wants to compete at the highest level and contend for a championship. That's the expectation he has for the Lakers if they want to keep him in the fold.
Despite his age, LeBron continues to perform at an elite level. Last season, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game while shooting 51.3% from the field and nearly 38% from beyond the arc—proof that he still has plenty left in the tank.
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