LeBron James has been not only one of the best players of his generation, but he is also arguably the best player of all time. Will he finish his career in Los Angeles with the Lakers?
LeBron James Potential Departure From The Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron James has been the face of the NBA since his induction back in 2003. There is no question that LeBron has been the best player in the NBA for nearly 2 decades. After LeBron James departed from the Cleveland Cavaliers he found a home in Los Angeles with the Lakers.
Sprouting a mutually beneficial relationship that has produced 1 NBA championship in 2020 and 2 playoff appearances. With LeBron’s contract coming to an end, he is eligible for an extension with the Lakers. LeBron‘s agent Rich Paul currently in talks with the Lakers organization and we are currently unsure whether he will return to Los Angeles.
21-22 Season
Despite the Los Angeles Laker’s poor 21-22 season they drew massive media attention and were the headlines of many marquee games. With the Lakers finishing 33-49 placing them 11th in the western conference they missed the playoffs which are something new for both parties as LeBron and the Lakers are known for their success.
Despite this losing record, LeBron James drew media attention and also averaged close to a triple-double. LeBron averaged 30 points 8 rebounds and 6 assists in his 56 games during the 2022 season.
Beneficial Deal
The joining of LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers was mutually beneficial for both parties and despite the poor performance last season there are still many positive takeaways. LeBron James is 38 years old and is still performing at the highest level you can. Games are the epitome of longevity as he has maintained a certain level of performance throughout his whole career.
In his 19th season in the NBA, he averages 30 points. It is only fair to say that he can maintain this performance for a few more years. With this in mind, the Lakers are key in making a deal to extend their contract with LeBron as having him on your roster nearly guarantees you a spot in the NBA finals or a chance at least.
Both parties have an opportunity to obtain their mutual goal of winning another NBA championship and achieving marketing success. It is rumored that LeBron wants to stay in the NBA long enough to play one season with his son Bronny James who is currently a senior in high school.
There’s no telling what the future holds but it is seeming that LeBron has a couple more years in the tank and the most beneficial thing for him to do is stay with the Lakers to maintain status and achieve his goal of playing with his son.
Extension Conversations
LeBron James agent Rich Paul and Lakers vice president of operations Rob Pelinka have been in conversation and have seemingly been having productive talks about maintaining a positive relationship with LeBron and the Lakers. Nothing has been set in stone, possibly waiting for the roster but there have been no talks of James leaving the Lakers.
We can only wait and see what the outcome will be. I’m sure he will return to the Lakers and finish his career in LA.
