Feb 4, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) moves the ball against Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the second half at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

LeBron James Raises Eyebrows With Latest Post Amid Trade Rumors

Originally posted on Los Angeles Clippers on SI
By Farbod Esnaashari | Last updated Jul 31, 2025 8:05 PM ET

It's hard to believe LeBron James could ever become a member of the LA Clippers. In fact, it almost feels like a guarantee that he never would be.

Despite that strong feeling, LeBron James' recent Instagram post has sent the NBA world into a frenzy. On Monday afternoon, LeBron posted on Instagram from one of the LA Clippers' former practice facilities.

"Say whatever you want but you damn sure won't be able to say I didn't put in the WORK!! . We'll see what happens when I no longer exist. Man F this Shhhhhh," James said.

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In all likelihood, the LA Clippers would not make a trade for LeBron James. If he were to get bought out, then everything would be a completely different story. No one expected Bradley Beal to get bought out by the Phoenix Suns, but it's hard to see LeBron ever getting bought out by the Lakers.

According to a recent report from the Dallas Hoops Journal , Luka Doncic reportedly wants LeBron James to retire with the Los Angeles Lakers and does not want to push him out of the team. If that's the case, it'll be even harder to see LeBron leave the Lakers or join the Clippers.

REPORT: Luka Doncic doesn’t want to push LeBron out of Los Angeles, and wants him to retire in LA.

(via @DALHoopsJournal h/t @Fullcourtpass) pic.twitter.com/VD8itUASui
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 31, 2025

With the way things look for the Clippers right now, the team deserves to get their full roster a shot next season. While it may be one of the oldest teams in NBA history, it's also one of the most talented from top to bottom.

This article first appeared on Los Angeles Clippers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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