The Los Angeles Lakers gained an unexpected advantage with the Luka Doncic trade.
They found a potential successor to LeBron James, ensuring the team’s competitiveness for years ahead.
As James approaches free agency at the end of the season, he is likely to explore new opportunities.
NBA insider Jake Fischer reports that both James and the Lakers seem ready to part ways.
LeBron James is unlikely to return to the Lakers next season
“The Lakers are prepared to move on from LeBron James, and I think he is ready to move on too,” Fischer stated. “This is the prevailing feeling in Los Angeles regarding the upcoming summer.”
The upcoming trade deadline on February 5 is significant, but a trade appears unlikely.
James is expected to complete the season with the Lakers before testing free agency next offseason.
According to ESPN insider Dave McMenamin, James has no interest in a farewell tour, but it’s hard to envision him playing beyond the 2026-27 season.
This isn’t due to a decline in performance; after 24 years in the league and numerous records, there’s little left for him to prove.
Regardless, multiple teams are likely to compete to secure James as he enters the final chapter of his career.