Despite Frustration With Lakers Ambition, LeBron James Likely to Finish His Career in LA

No one quite saw it coming, but deep down, most knew that a LeBron James future saga was on the horizon heading into the offseason. The King opted into his $52 million player option, but there have been reports of him considering a future elsewhere. That said, this doesn’t mean Bron is happy with the Lakers organization.

Purple and Gold insider Anthony Irwin recently revealed that LeBron hasn’t been happy with the team’s direction ever since Russell Westbrook was dealt away two seasons ago. Even though Westbrook never quite made it into the hearts of the Laker fanbase, Bron wanted him by his side. However, it can’t be said that the Lakers aren’t looking to win immediately.

Luka Doncic joined the 17-time NBA champs in February in a trade that sent Anthony Davis to Dallas. It’s clear they’ll contend this season—and as harsh as it sounds, it will be with or without James.

“On LeBron James’ side, there is real frustration over the Lakers’ lack of direction since the Russell Westbrook trade,” Irwin wrote via ClutchPoints. “The whole thing has become pretty awkward, and yet the reality is they’re both better off with each other.”

“There is no trade the Lakers would make that would give James a better chance at a title than he has playing with Doncic,” added Irwin.

He’s not wrong. At 40 years old, James is still performing at a high level, but would a change of scenery and another team departure really give him a better shot at a fifth ring? LBJ has already established some rapport with Luka, as well as with other members of the Lakers squad.

Here’s the other thing to consider: James might have only one season left. That, at least, is what Dave McMenamin suggests. “I think we have to start thinking about this could be his last year in the league,” the analyst said on ESPN.

McMenamin later spoke about how LeBron’s agent, Rich Paul, didn’t make a big fuss about the lack of an extension for his client by Los Angeles. “I think you look at it like, yeah, there’s very limited time remaining in his career,” stated McMenamin. “Since he reached 20 years in the league, he’s gone into every offseason contemplating retirement.”

It’s sad to think about. For 22 years, LeBron has been a staple of the NBA. He’s been the game’s biggest endorsement, both on the court and off. When he’s gone, an incredible chapter of the NBA will be forever closed. Sure, his haters may love that. But after a few weeks without Bron, they’ll realize they miss him too.