LeBron James’ career has been in major question in the last few weeks. If he delays his retirement, the four-time NBA champion could be out of the Los Angeles Lakers this year or next.
The Lakers have been questioned why they have not announced James’ decision to exercise his $52.6 million player option. Reports have also indicated that the franchise sees the NBA icon as an expiring contract, which would be the first time in his illustrious career.
NBA insider Marc Stein has also floated the potential trade to another Western Conference giant that could shake the sporting world entirely.
Marc Stein Predicts Warriors’ Interest in LeBron James if He Chooses To Leave
Stein also predicted that James would likely continue playing even after the 2025-26 season, but admitted that the player ultimately takes the career-deciding step.
Stein also predicts that the Warriors could be interested in trading for James if the legend chooses to leave L.A. in the future.
“I believe that the Warriors, who have shown an interest in acquiring James dating to the February 2024 trade deadline some 18 months ago, will remain in the mix if James ever does reach the point that he’s looking for a last hurrah elsewhere,” he writes.
If the move ever happens, it will undoubtedly shake the sporting world. Stephen Curry and James will unite for the first time at the NBA level and would undoubtedly go championship-hunting together for their fifth. They formed a formidable duo with the star-studded Team USA roster to lead the country to a gold medal at the Olympics last year.
They might be old and slow now, but it is no secret that Curry and James remain two of the best players in the league right now. They still average 24+ points per game across the regular season, and can take the pressure off the other All-Star whenever needed.
It may sound crazy to some, but the Warriors were actually considering making an offer to the Lakers for the 21-time All-Star. However, Golden State’s interest was never strong enough.
It’s starting to be more likely that he stays with the Lakers for the 2025-26 season, but his future looks questionable after that point. Recent reports claimed that there were no buyout talks between the Lakers and James, which puts all rumors to bed.
As Rich Paul claimed, James and his camp will assess all the options for his future and then decide on his career. Until then, the rumors surrounding his NBA career will continue to swirl.
