LeBron James has reportedly decided to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers, despite the Golden State Warriors and Philadelphia 76ers trying to trade the superstar. James will remain with the Lakers for the rest of the season. However, a lot of people are already speculating that LeBron James will play next season. Will it be the Warriors?
James has a $51.4 million player option next season. Some expected him to choose not to pass the money on. He can also opt-in and then ask for a trade.
Others believe that James may opt out, having the freedom to choose him to go. It was recently reported that James could sign a new short-term contract extension with the Lakers, which would boost his salary.
James could also decide to play his final season after he opted out. If he chooses to go to the Golden State Warriors, this will be the most likely scenario.
The idea of partnering with Curry would be interesting. James is also a good friend of Draymond Green, which could be good for the Golden State Warriors. The team could also bring back another good friend of James, Chris Paul, who has one year left on his contract.
The Warriors have plenty of room to sign James, although he's been suffering from a luxury tax and a second-time slot penalty. The main way to make room for James and a potentially huge salary is to get Klay Thompson away.
The Splash Brothers will become an unrestricted free agent in the offseason. If the Warriors don't renew Thompson's contract, they'll have some money to sign James. Thompson made $43.2 million in the final year of his contract.
The Warriors could also find a trade partner for Andrew Wiggins. He has three years left on his contract and will be paid $26.2 million next season. He and his salary could make way for James.
Jonathan Kuminga's trade value has increased this season. If James wants to head north to California, the young forward could join Wiggins in a tempting signing deal for the Lakers.
Both the Lakers and Warriors will have more flexibility in the offseason than at the trade deadline. The two companies may restart negotiations to reach a potential blockbuster deal.
Is LeBron James leaving the Lakers in the offseason?
LeBron James has committed to joining Los Angeles and has denied any moves before the deadline. However, a different tune may emerge this summer. James could opt out of his player option, enter the free agent market, and make changes during his final season or two in the NBA.
It's also likely that LeBron James will base his decision on his son, Bronny James. His eldest son is a freshman at the University of Southern California and qualifies for this summer's NBA Draft.
Bronny hasn't played at an elite level, and USC isn't very good. However, Bronny could still be drafted by a team looking to attract LeBron James.
LeBron has always said that he wants to play at least one season with his son Bronny. Whichever team picks Bronny could be the frontrunner in securing LeBron's service next season.
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