LeBron James shut down retirement rumors on Sunday by opting into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season.
However, a recent statement made by James’ agent, Rich Paul, suggests there’s a chance the 40-year-old Los Angeles Lakers superstar could soon be on the move.
“LeBron wants to compete for a championship," Paul told ESPN’s Shams Charania. "He knows the Lakers are building for the future."
"He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie (Buss) and Rob (Pelinka) and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career."
"We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what's best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive, and want what's best for him."
After Paul hinted at a potential future trade centered around James, The Spun’s Andrew Holleran crafted a mind-blowing trade concept that would send James to the New York Knicks for a beloved New York Knicks star forward.
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“Would there be a cooler way for LeBron James to finish his NBA career than by helping lead the New York Knicks to a championship,” Holleran wrote.
“The Knicks made the Eastern Conference Finals in 2024-25, losing to the Indiana Pacers. New York could look to trade Mikal Bridges and some other talent to the Lakers in exchange for LeBron, who has said that Madison Square Garden is his favorite NBA arena.”
Bridges had an up-and-down year with the Knicks this past season. The Villanova product was involved in New York’s blockbuster summer trade to bolster its roster before the start of the 2024-25 season.
Although the mid-range specialist and exceptional perimeter defender played a pivotal role in the Knicks’ Eastern Conference Finals, his three-point shooting left much to be desired.
Bridges averaged 17.6 points per game on 50% field goal shooting and 35.4% three-point shooting (the second-worst long-range shooting performance of his career).
Still, if Bridges were to land in Los Angeles following James' agreement to waive his no-trade clause, the Lakers would receive a versatile wing who could complement Luka Doncic, assuming he bounces back from his uncharacteristic beyond-the-arc showing.
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