Lakers Want To Move On From LeBron James ‘ASAP’

Los Angeles acquired Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks last season, signaling a power shift. The Lakers want to build around Doncic, who is only 26 years old.

James is the oldest player in the NBA. He turns 41 in December and his expiring contract is appealing to Los Angeles since the franchise wants to have cap space in 2027. 

James played in 70 games last season. He averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists while shooting 51.3% from the field, 37.6% from beyond the arc and 78.2% from the free-throw line.

James made the All-NBA Second Team, becoming the oldest player in league history to accomplish that feat. 

The Lakers were the third seed in the West last season but lost to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs in five games. 

James has been with the Lakers since 2018. His stint with the franchise has been a rollercoaster. 

The Lakers missed the playoffs in Year 1, won the championship in Year 2, lost in the first round of the playoffs in Year 3, missed the playoffs in Year 4, lost in the conference finals in Year 5 and lost in the first round of the playoffs in Year 6 and 7. 

James is averaging 26.6 points, 7.9 rebounds and 8.1 assists with the Lakers, who were a walking disaster before the four-time MVP joined the franchise. James won his fourth title and fourth Finals MVP with Los Angeles in 2020 against his former team, the Miami Heat. 

A James trade is difficult since the future Hall of Famer will make $52.6 million next season. However, if the Lakers and James agree to a buyout, pretty much every NBA contender would be interested in LeBron.