The Oklahoma City Thunder have swept another team in the conference semifinals, the Los Angeles Lakers, and that has opened a can of speculation over LeBron James’ future once again. Luka Doncic has reportedly clarified his stance on trading Austin Reaves, as he wants to continue playing alongside the SG. That puts James’ future with the Lakers even more in jeopardy.
While several analysts and fans have speculated various outcomes for King James, the Miami Heat legend Gary Payton suggested something that might be on the minds of every basketball fan. Featuring on the Nightcap podcast, the former point guard said:
“I really think he’s gonna stay West. He has spent so much money over there, his kids loving there, and his wife loving there, I don’t think he gonna come to the East. It’s a good shot he comes to the Golden State, if he leaves, he’s going to Golden State.”
Steph Curry and LeBron James can be one of the most hyped superteams in the NBA after fans witnessed what they can do together in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Given the bond between the two and a common purpose of winning a last championship, it would make sense.
James has exhausted his player option and will now be an unrestricted free agent in the offseason. Payton believed that the Lakers’ governor, Jeanie Buss, won’t let King James move somewhere else in the tail end of his career. Moreover, James has expressed his wish to end his career in LA.
“I don’t know,” LeBron James questions about his future after 0-4 loss
It’s almost like a ritual now to ask LeBron James about his future in the league after playing 21 seasons in the NBA. The 42-year-old was again asked about it after the Lakers lost the conference semifinals to the defending champs. He replied:
“I don’t know, obviously, we’re still fresh from losing. I don’t know what the future holds for me, as it stands right now tonight. I got a lot of time to sit back. I think I said last year, go back and recalibrate with my family, and talk with them, and spend some time with them and when the time comes, obviously, you guys will know.”
Luka Doncic’s injury hurt the Lakers’ chances of winning the title, even after they looked great in the regular season. He was sidelined due to a left hamstring sprain for the postseason. LeBron James closed out the first series against the Houston Rockets even without Austin Reaves.
However, the Thunder was not a team to be overcome that easily. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Co. have swept two back-to-back series this postseason and look set to defend their title. Jalen Williams is also on the bench due to a hamstring sprain, and the team might need his services in the final phase. For now, he can rest easy!
READ MORE: Luka Doncic Sums Up Lakers’ Feelings With Firm Response to Potential Austin Reaves Trade
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