LeBron James hasn’t made any official decision on his future yet, but that hasn’t stopped teams around the NBA from preparing for the possibility that the all-time great could hit the open market this summer.
The Los Angeles Lakers superstar is set to become an unrestricted free agent, and after completing his 23rd NBA season, speculation continues to grow around whether James will return to Los Angeles, join another contender or potentially retire altogether.
“Honestly, I think LeBron, more than past years, probably needs even more time with his family, with his inner circle,” ESPN’s Shams Charania said during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. “I do know a lot of teams are calling him and his camp. I spoke to Rich Paul the other day at the Chicago Draft Combine last week, and he told me every contender in the NBA, essentially, since the season ended has placed a call.”
That update immediately fueled speculation about where James could land if he decides to continue playing.
Multiple contenders are expected to explore ways to bring him in, with teams such as the Golden State Warriors and Cleveland Cavaliers already being heavily linked in league circles.
Still, the biggest factor remains whether James actually wants to play a 24th NBA season. At 41 years old and after more than two decades in the league, the future Hall of Famer has repeatedly emphasized the importance of family and life away from basketball.
Charania noted that James is expected to take time before making any major decision regarding next season.
The Lakers, meanwhile, have reportedly made it clear they want him back alongside Luka Doncic as the franchise attempts to remain in championship contention.
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