Lakers legend makes bombshell LeBron James prediction

The Los Angeles Lakers are ready to build for and around Luka Doncic.

However, that doesn't mean they don't want to bring LeBron James back for what might be his final NBA season.

James is an unrestricted free agent and is reportedly considering joining the Golden State Warriors if he doesn't return to Los Angeles.

Nevertheless, Showtime legend Michael Cooper just doesn't see that happening, as he believes the Lakers know how valuable he is and will bring him back.

Michael Cooper says LeBron James will return to the Lakers

“I think he ends up resigning with the Lakers,” Cooper told Heavy Sports' DJ Siddiqi. “If you look at LeBron’s game, LeBron is better than 90-95% of the players in this league today, and the one thing that makes him different is what makes the great ones different.”

The five-time NBA champion compared LeBron's game to other legends, and he realizes that he can still ball at a high level because he's been able to adapt and adjust to his age:

“Michael Jordan, Kobe, Magic, as their skill level diminishes a little bit, they start moving closer to the basket, and if you notice Michael, Magic, Kobe, all of them started learning and doing things in the post, and that’s what LeBron is doing. I believe he’ll be back for 24 seasons,” Cooper said.

The Lakers also have to make a decision about Austin Reaves, who will be one of the most sought-after players if (when) he opts out of the final year of his contract.

James is reportedly looking for a max deal to return to Los Angeles. However, he can take a pay cut if they show him a plan to build a championship contender.

Head coach JJ Redick has done an impressive job in his first two years with the team, though the Lakers might still be a spot above other powerhouses like the Oklahoma City Thunder or San Antonio Spurs.

That said, it's hard to believe they'd be a better team without James. And since his family and business are also rooted in Southern California, it might be in everyone's best interests to get a deal done.