The Los Angeles Lakers and superstar LeBron James are reportedly ready to move on from each other this summer.
NBA insider Jake Fischer reported in his latest mailbag on Monday.
"Definitively, the Lakers are ready to move on from LeBron James and I think LeBron James is ready to move on from the Lakers as well. That's kind of the foregone sentiment in Los Angeles right now about what's to come this summer."
The Lakers have moved on from James as their face of the franchise, and that was evident when they traded for Luka Doncic a year ago. On top of that, the emergence of Austin Reaves has done wonders for the Lakers, who view him as a franchise cornerstone alongside Doncic.
Fischer went on to say that Reaves’ emergence and the Lakers wanting to get younger and athletic is a major driving point in moving away from James.
“That is kind of the foregone sentiment in Los Angeles right now about what’s to come this summer. They are going to be retaining Austin Reeves by all accounts. That’s kind of the plan, and then they’re going to look to add upside, young pieces fitting Luka and Austin’s timetable on their perimeter. Hopefully shore up their front court in addition to Deandre Ayton, who will only have one year left beyond next season’s contract as well.”
Is This LeBron James' Final Season in L.A.?
James’ future with the Lakers is uncertain. He is set to be an unrestricted free agent this summer with a $52.6 million expiring salary.
The 41-year-old is closer to the end of his career than the beginning. This could be James’ last season in the league, and no one would be shocked if he were to hang up his sneakers by season’s end.
The Lakers may want to move on from James, but it isn't that simple. L.A. would need a clear, definitive plan - such as acquiring a handful of elite perimeter defenders via trade or free agency - if it hopes to improve without him. With plenty of money to spend this summer and next, the Lakers are in a strong position to do exactly that.
With Doncic and Reaves entering their primes, James on his way out the door, and a lot of money to spend, the Lakers have a great opportunity to build a contender to surround their superstars.
Newsweek