After being swept in the playoffs, is there any chance that the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James could be on the move to New York to join the Knicks? First Take's Stephen A. Smith hopes so.
During the May 12, 2026, edition of First Take, Smith unveiled his top five destinations for James in 2026. His favorite team, the Knicks, was the top choice, ahead of the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Golden State Warriors, the Los Angeles Lakers, and retirement.
.@stephenasmith gives the TOP FIVE landing spots for LeBron next season 👀⬇️ pic.twitter.com/crORQCSq9s
— First Take (@FirstTake) May 12, 2026
To Smith, the move makes sense. The Knicks wouldn't have to give up any assets if they signed James, and he's a highly marketable player for a billion-dollar franchise.
“By the way, you're the New York Knicks uniform associated with the New York Knicks brand. The billionaire that is James Dolan — say what you will, but the man knows how to make money — LeBron James on Wall Street; we're talking an easy half-billion extra in his pocket if he shows up in a New York Knick uniform.”
Plus, if the Knicks don't win a championship this year and James joins them and leads them to the promised land, that's even more money to be made.
Article Continues Below
Will LeBron James join the Knicks in NBA free agency?
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the second half in game four of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena.
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
James' next steps are unknown. The Lakers were just bounced out of the playoffs by the Thunder. Even James conceded that he didn't know what the future holds.
Of course, a move to New York would be a great fit. James is one of the most recognizable faces in the NBA, and he'd do wonders for the franchise.
At the same time, he has been with the Lakers since 2018, winning one title with them. His son, Bronny James Jr., is also on the team. A move to New York would have to make sense for both sides.
After being swept in the playoffs, is there any chance that the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James could be on the move to New York to join the Knicks? First Take's Stephen A. Smith hopes so. During the May 12, 2026, edition of First Take, Smith unveiled his top five destinations for James in 2026.