Four Teams Have Contacted Rich Paul With Interest in Trading for Los Angeles Lakers’ LeBron James

The reason some people believe James could request a trade from the Lakers this offseason is because of what Paul told NBA insider Shams Charania of ESPN after his client picked up his 2025-26 player option.

Here’s what Paul told Charania:

“LeBron wants to compete for a championship. He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we’ve had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.

“We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive and want what’s best for him.”

The Golden State Warriors considered whether to make a trade offer to the Lakers for James, according to NBA insiders Brian Windhorst and Ramona Shelburne of ESPN. The Warriors tried to trade for James during the 2023-24 season.

James, who turns 41 in December, has a no-trade clause in his contract. He has been on the Lakers since 2018.

Los Angeles traded for Luka Doncic last season. Doncic is only 26, so he’s the new franchise player for the Lakers, who can sign the former Dallas Mavericks superstar to an extension starting on August 2.

James’ son, Bronny James, is on the Lakers. It would shock many people if LeBron requests a trade. He probably just wants Rob Pelinka to upgrade the roster around him and Doncic so he can compete for his fifth ring next season.

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