ESPN Names LeBron James, Zion Williamson Candidates to Request NBA Trade

On Monday, ESPN released its latest NBA Summer Forecast, which surveyed insiders on which stars are most likely to request a midseason trade. Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans star forward, led the poll with 10 votes, followed by Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo with 7.

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James rounded out the top three with 6 votes.

For Williamson, New Orleans’ decision to replace David Griffin with Joe Dumars as head of basketball operations may have extended his time with the franchise. Still, questions remain about whether he will eventually seek a fresh start. Injuries have repeatedly slowed him, and insiders note that a strong, healthy start could reignite interest in pursuing a move away from a team that has struggled to advance past mediocrity.

James’ situation is very different. He picked up his $52.6 million player option this summer, with reports indicating that some teams inquired through his agent, Rich Paul. However, at age 40, with a massive contract and a no-trade clause, orchestrating such a deal is exceedingly complicated.

Also receiving votes in the poll were Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant and Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young, each with one vote.

Likelihood of LeBron James Trade From Lakers

The chances of James requesting a trade remain extremely slim. In more than two decades in the league, he has never asked for a trade, much less during the middle of a season. With the Los Angeles Lakers adding Luka Doncic to pair with James, he appears committed to pushing for another championship run in LA at least for one more season.

Williamson, meanwhile, has never been traded since being drafted first overall in 2019. However, persistent injuries and frustration with the Pelicans’ inability to break through could eventually prompt him to consider other options.