Another complicated situation within the Los Angeles Lakers, as the team is scrambling to find consistency and string together a series of wins. Right now, the team is hanging by in the standings with a record of 25-25.
This instability has fueled a flurry of trade rumors, with names like D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura swirling prominently. However, one particular rumor has taken many by surprise, suggesting that Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka is exploring the possibility of trading four-time NBA champion LeBron James.
“Hearing from nba peeps LeBron James is the top of the Lakers list to trade the 39 year old. Pelinka is looking for the right team to dance with and is close to a suitor Lbj and AD both out tonight.”
Hearing from @nba peeps @KingJames is the top of the @Lakers list to trade the 39 year old. Pelinka is looking for the right team to dance with and is close to a suitor Lbj and AD both out tonight. @KTLA @KTLA5SPORTS #nba #Lakers
— David pingalore (@DavidPingalore) February 1, 2024
The information originated from David Pingalore of KTLA 5 Sports, who has nailed major moves in the NBA. He correctly called LeBron’s return to the Cleveland Cavaliers, his subsequent move to the Los Angeles Lakers, and even Kawhi Leonard’s move to the Los Angeles Clippers.
… https://t.co/0xsEXfd3j9 pic.twitter.com/VnoWsZAoxm
— Lakers Empire (@LakersEmpire) February 1, 2024
LeBron is known for honoring his contracts and typically opts for free agency when switching teams. However, whispers of a potential departure have sparked speculation. Before reports of Pelinka contemplating a trade emerged, Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer already proposed several teams as potential trade partners for the 39-year-old Lakers star.
Per The Ringer:
“If a breakup is inevitable, I can’t help but wonder whether the best time for both LeBron and the Lakers to make a change is now, ahead of the deadline: James could join a contender, and Los Angeles could get something in return. Would the Heat, Knicks, or Sixers make an all-in move? All of them could offer a better chance at the Finals than the Lakers,” O’Conner wrote.
“What if the Warriors offer a bunch of their picks and young guys? LeBron does love Steph Curry and Draymond Green. Or could the Cavs see appeal in another LeBron homecoming? It’d be quite a final chapter to his career. Changing teams would allow LeBron to take advantage of one of his final years and would allow the Lakers to recoup some value and help lay the groundwork to pursue Luka Doncic later this decade.”
