LeBron James can go after NBA offseason trades with poor campaigns followed by the Los Angeles Lakers.
According to Chris Mannix, from the Sports Illustrated portal, the four-time MVP may ask to leave the franchise.
“Let’s face it. LeBron James’ decision to extend his contract with the Lakers was a mistake. It was a mistake. He didn’t need the guaranteed money. So there was no reason to push your deal until 2023/24.” Mannix said.
“It was also a mistake for Los Angeles. Especially because the team had nothing to build a squad capable of fighting for the title. Also, this season you don’t have the flexibility to do anything with him.” Mannix added.
However, the reporter believes that the best solution would be for the Lakers to look for trade options for LeBron James now.
Thus, it would open space for the franchise to rebuild itself. But with the permanence of the current group, there would be doubts about his interest in continuing in Los Angeles.
“In an ideal world, the Lakers would use the space created by Russell Westbrook’s departure next summer to sign Kyrie Irving or Draymond Green. So he would still have a draft pick or two to come back into contention next season.” Mannix said.
“But if that doesn’t happen, can the Lakers really go into 2023/24 with James, Anthony Davis and whatever group of athletes they can rally around them? Would James want? Dealing with LeBron would take a little nerve.” he added.
In the midst of the Lakers’ poor moment, James made bombastic revelations about his future and did not rule out asking for a trade while he is still in the NBA.
However, the veteran made it clear that even at the age of 38 he still has goals in the league. One of them, of course, is to be champion again.
But if he understands that the Angelinos won’t give him this possibility, he can look for a new home very soon.
“I don’t want to end my career at this level, from a team perspective. I still want to fight to be an NBA champion, but I know what I can bring to any team with the right parts,” James said.
“I want to win and give myself a chance to win and still compete for titles. It has always been my passion.” James added.
