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How LeBron James’ situation drove Brook Lopez from Lakers to Clippers

Originally posted on NBA on ClutchPoints
By Evan Dammarell | Last updated Jul 13, 2025 1:54 PM ET

When Brook Lopez pivoted from a potential return to the Los Angeles Lakers to signing with the rival LA Clippers, it wasn’t about money, minutes, or even market. It was about uncertainty. More specifically, it was the uncertainty swirling around LeBron James and his future with the Lakers.

As detailed by ESPN’s Brian Windhorst and Ramona Shelburne, Lopez was initially enticed by the idea of returning to the Lakers and filling a starting role alongside Luka Doncic. But the moment Rich Paul, James’ longtime agent, issued a carefully worded statement about evaluating “what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career,” Lopez backed off.

Despite James picking up his $52.6 million option for the 2025-26 season, the statement read more like a farewell letter than a recommitment. For Lopez and likely others, it raised questions about the Lakers’ direction. And the implications were immediate. According to ESPN, Lopez grew wary of the murky future and chose the stability of the Clippers instead.

The Brook Lopez situation isn’t a new thing for the Lakers this offseason

Los Angeles Lakers center Alex Len (27) defends against Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez (11) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

This wasn’t an isolated incident. Since the Lakers stunned the NBA world by trading Anthony Davis for Doncic in February, signals have pointed to a franchise pivoting away from James. From holding a high-stakes strategy dinner with Doncic, not James, at celebrity hotspot Craig’s, to informing Doncic of ownership changes before informing James, the Lakers’ actions speak louder than words.

The organization’s refusal to extend James past 2026 further underlined that sentiment. While Pelinka once presented thick binders of team plans to James, those are now reserved for Doncic, the new face of the Lakers. For Lopez, the shift was too significant to ignore. His decision to sign with the Clippers underscores a growing perception: the Lakers are no longer all-in on James. They’re preparing for life after him.

LeBron’s cryptic social media posts referencing Cleveland and subtle jabs at the Lakers’ handling of his role suggest he’s aware of the changing tide. But for now, he remains an icon navigating a transition he didn’t script.

This article first appeared on NBA on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

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