The LeBron James era in Los Angeles may be nearing its end. According to veteran sports radio host John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7, sources close to the situation claim that both James and the Lakers are ready to part ways after seven seasons together. The bombshell report suggests that the four-time NBA champion “wants out of LA” and that the Lakers “want him gone”.
The timing of the revelation is striking. James, 40, recently opted into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season, signaling a potential final run with the franchise. But behind the scenes, tensions appear to be mounting. Gambadoro pointed to James’ body language during the Lakers’ first-round playoff loss to the Timberwolves, specifically Game 1, as evidence of his growing disinterest.
I was told this after the playoffs by someone close to Lebron- Said “Lebron wants out of LA and they want him gone” “Watch Game 1 how disinterested Lebron was” Now MOST people on here know that my sources are not the 6 degrees of Kevin Bacon.
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) July 2, 2025
Adding fuel to the fire, Gambadoro also claimed that James and teammate Austin Reaves are not fond of playing alongside Luka Dončić, who was acquired in a blockbuster trade last season.
“LeBron does not like playing with Luka,” Gambadoro said. “Reaves does not like getting the ball with two seconds left on the shot clock”.
While James has publicly praised Dončić’s basketball IQ and unselfishness, most notably on his Mind the Game podcast, there’s growing speculation that the Lakers’ long-term vision no longer includes their aging superstar. The front office has reportedly shifted its focus to building around Dončić and younger talent, including Reaves and recent draft pick Dalton Knecht.
James’ agent, Rich Paul, added a layer of ambiguity in a recent statement to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Paul said. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future… We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career”.
Despite the noise, any potential trade would be complicated. James holds a full no-trade clause, meaning he would have to approve any deal. Still, insiders believe that if the right opportunity arises—perhaps with a contender in the Eastern Conference—James could be open to a move.
