LeBron James’ tenure in LA is nearing its end

LeBron James’ time with the Los Angeles Lakers is nearing its end, according to reports on Monday. These reports suggest that the four-time NBA champion could be signed ‘with a discount’ if certain conditions are met.

‘The King’ signed a two-year contract extension with the LA Lakers back in September 2022, worth $97.1 million, with a player option for one more year through the 2024-25 season. However, NBA Insider Marc Stein reports that James will likely walk away from the contract at the end of the current season.

Stein also points out that at least ‘two teams’ are eager to sign LeBron James for the following season. They might obtain him ‘at a discount’ if they are able to pick Bronny James in the next NBA Draft, as the son of the legend is projected to be between the 10th and 20th overall pick by some outlets.

Per Stein, LeBron James will be signing ‘for far less than $51.4 million if Bronny James is on the roster. ‘ He also mentions that more teams might be interested in ‘The King,’ who will turn 40 this year.

Lakers like their team

The Lakers seem to believe the right move was to make no move at all. A team source told the Los Angeles Times that the Lakers are happy with their squad despite its inconsistencies — and they will look for other ways to reinforce the group around James and Anthony Davis before the playoffs begin.

One factor that contributed to general manager Rob Pelinka’s inaction at the trade deadline relates to upcoming draft picks. Los Angeles must give the New Orleans Pelicans one of their first-round picks in 2024 or 2025 as part of the trade to acquire Davis, but the Lakers own their second-round picks in every draft through 2030 and control their first-round selections between 2026 and 2030. Armed with these selections, Pelinka hopes he can swing a trade for a real difference-maker over the summer.