LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
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LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron James has cut a frustrated figure at times this season. The Los Angeles Lakers veteran superstar is nearing the end of his career and could be on the lookout for a new team this summer, assuming he opts against retirement.
According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, speaking via a recent episode of “The Hoop Collective” podcast, part of James’ frustration and perceived grumpiness is likely that he will not be part of the next contending roster in Los Angeles.
“We all understand the Lakers are a roster remodeling around Luka and Austin Reaves away from being in the conversation of contenders,” MacMahon said. “And I think part of LeBron’s grumpiness— and this is obviously speculation; I’m not inside his head— part of his grumpiness is probably the realization that he’s not going to be part of that…I won’t say it’s not gonna happen for certain, but it’s very unlikely that he’s back with the Lakers next season. He’s not going out in L. A. on his own terms.”
Next season, LeBron will be turning 42 years old. It makes sense for the Lakers to prioritize building around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Moving on from LeBron will help make that a reality.
Four Teams Have Interest In Lakers’ LeBron James
According to Brian Windhorst, who was speaking via the “Rich Eisen Show,” there are four teams that could potentially have interest in signing LeBron James in the summer.
“Cleveland is one of them,” Windhorst said. “I’m not sure I’d put the Heat on the list. Golden State, depending on how things go, would be one. There are two places that I won’t say right now that I’m keeping my eye on. I have a team or two that I think he could consider going to, and I have researched the concept, and I will continue to keep my eye on the concept.”
Assuming LeBron opts to play another year, his best bet will be to join a contending roster. Therefore, both the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Golden State Warriors could make a significant amount of sense. Of course, either of these moves would likely mean LeBron has to accept a sizeable cut from his current salary.
LeBron James Knows Lakers Aren’t Contenders
A recent example of LeBron being grumpy with the media came after the Lakers lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder, 119-110, on Monday, Feb. 9.
“That’s a championship team right there,” LeBron said. “We’re not. … We can’t sustain energy and effort 48 minutes, and they can. That’s why they won the championship.”
LeBron has always been focused on winning championships. Unfortunately, outside of the 2020 championship, he hasn’t had much success in purple and gold. Now, he may have to accept that the next banner to be raised in the Crypto.com arena will be by a team that doesn’t include his name on the roster.
Therefore, the best thing he can do is find a new home for one more season and try to bow out of the league on a high note.