Analyst Doubts Knicks' LeBron James Chances

He and his agent, Rich Paul, made it known that though the Lakers have made some flashy recent moves in swapping the older, more brittle Anthony Davis for the wunderkind Doncic, the lack of talent surrounding the top-heavy roster once again puts the pressure on the Los Angeles front office to surround the 40-year-old legend with enough help to win another ring for the Lakers.

Should they be unable to impress him, a common theme in the dynamic between player and management in the 2020s, Paul will "evaluate what's best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career."

It didn't take long for trade speculation to kick up, with many wondering if James would take a hard look at the Lakers moves before committing to Los Angeles any longer than he had to. The New York Knicks, eager to solidify themselves as inner-circle contenders, were instantly mentioned as a name to watch should they look to bounce back from recent failed attempts at trades.

Before these rumors could pick up much steam, several key analysts pointed out the unlikelihood that a contender, likely already pressed up against salary concerns, can trade for James' massive deal. He remains a physical anomaly, but he's set to enter his unheard-of 23rd NBA season while still commanding high usage and perhaps the league's most commanding voice.

Brian Windhorst and Bobby Marks convened on ESPN to give their measured takes on the smoke, and point out just how much of a burden a trade partner would be trading for. The James name alone is enough to make at least a dozen teams start to fantasize about instantly flipping into a "contender," even if he's already started succumbing to age.

His Lakers situation is unique, as he's spent the last few years on decent teams that lack the realistic championship upside he's grown accustomed to. The Doncic acquisition completely changes the team's future, though, and it's up to James to analyze how that'll shape the present. The Knicks have tried dancing with James in the open market before, but may not have much to go off of this time around.