The tension between LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers appears to be reaching a breaking point.
Despite opting into his deal for the 2025-26 season, James’ future with the franchise remains murky after recent comments from his agent Rich Paul and a report suggesting both sides may want a split.
“We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career,” Paul told ESPN. He added James still values a “realistic chance” of competing for a championship, even as the Lakers’ roster undergoes major changes.
NBA insider John Gambadoro shared an even stronger claim.
“Someone close to James told me James wants ‘out’ of L.A. and that the Lakers want him ‘gone’ themselves,” Gambadoro revealed.
Gambo has sources, but even if he didn’t, Reeves just turned down an extension and LeBron is “exploring his options”. It’s pretty obvious Gambo’s assessment is spot on.
— Aaron Wright (@ADub188) July 2, 2025
The Lakers took a step to reshape their roster Wednesday by signing center Deandre Ayton.
But with forward Dorian Finney-Smith leaving for Houston and minimal free-agent activity beyond Ayton, questions about the Lakers’ title viability remain.
“Even though the Lakers have found a way to strengthen their depth chart at the center position, maybe James will still be unsatisfied with the roster and ask for a trade somewhere else,” Jesse Cinquini of Lakers Daily wrote.
If the four-time NBA champ does request a move, several teams could emerge as suitors.
“The Golden State Warriors might be a team to keep an eye on in the James sweepstakes,” Cinquini added.
The Warriors reportedly pursued LeBron at the 2024 trade deadline, and his mutual respect with Stephen Curry could make the pairing even more intriguing.
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