The Lakers Strongly Prefer That LeBron James Instead of Leaving. He should…
NBA insider Sam Amick is reporting the Lakers would prefer to see LeBron James retire wearing Purple and Gold.
It appears if the Los Angeles Lakers have their way, LeBron James would retire with the franchise. The Athletic’s Sam Amick is reporting that the Lakers would ‘strongly prefer’ that James ends his storied NBA career with them.
“His statement to reporters regarding his contract is the only part that truly matters when it comes to the power dynamics in play here,” Amick wrote. “Team sources say the Lakers would strongly prefer that James retire in their jersey someday, meaning he holds all the cards until his contract situation gets figured out. The Lakers’ top decision-makers have no illusions about that much.” It seems the only question here really is whether LeBron, who is averaging 24.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, 7.6 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game this season, wants to retire as a Laker. The 39-year-old has a $51.4 million player option for 2024-25, and he could opt out of it to become a free agent this summer.
LeBron refused to commit to the Lakers when asked about his player option, as he stated he did not know what he was going to do with it. It has seemed pretty clear that he wants the Lakers to make some moves to turn around what has been a disappointing 2023-24 season, where they currently sport a 27-25 record.
With LA having failed to pull off any moves and with the February 8 trade deadline fast approaching, James has been using some interesting tactics to pressure the team. Eyebrows were first raised when LeBron posted an hourglass emoji on X after the Lakers were blown out by the Atlanta Hawks last month, implying that time was running out for someone.
Then after a game against the New York Knicks earlier this month, James chose to wear a Knicks towel during his postgame interview. NBA insider Brian Windhorst firmly believes LeBron was using that Knicks towel to pressure the Lakers into making a move.