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NBA Legend Offers Lakers 2-Edged LeBron James Warning

Originally posted on LAFB Network | By Ryan Anderson | Last updated Jul 15, 2025 12:17 AM ET

As speculation swirls about LeBron James’ future with the Los Angeles Lakers, one of his former teammates offered a revealing look at the reality of sharing a locker room with the league’s most relentless superstar.

“Playing with LeBron sucks because you’re trying to win a championship,” Richard Jefferson said on the Road Trippin’ podcast — a statement delivered with sarcasm, yes, but underpinned by sincerity. Jefferson, who teamed up with James in Cleveland from 2016 to 2017, knows what it means to operate within James’ high-stakes orbit.

“He’s one of the most competitive human beings in the history of American sports,” Jefferson continued. “Does it suck when you’re showing up and he’s already been practicing for four hours? When he’s watching film and you mess up a play, and he’s just like, ‘[Expletive], what are you doing?’ Yeah, those are the cons.”

Jefferson’s point isn’t unique. The intense drive and expectations James brings to every team have long been part of his legend — as they were with other greats like Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan. The downside? Not everyone is built to withstand that pressure.

LeBron’s Lakers Exit? The Noise Grows Louder

NBA Legend Offers Lakers 2-Edged LeBron James Warning 1 Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

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Heading into what could be his final season in Los Angeles, James’ future remains in limbo. Though he opted into the final year of his contract, the Lakers’ lack of significant roster upgrades — coupled with front office whispers about prioritizing Luka Dončić as the next franchise cornerstone — have fueled trade speculation.

Even Charles Barkley weighed in, saying, “LeBron is on the downside of his career. It’s Luka’s team going forward.”

One Last Ride — Or a New Beginning?

At 40, James is chasing one final title — but he may not do it in purple and gold. Former teammates, agents, and analysts alike agree: wherever he goes, he’ll bring greatness. But as Jefferson reminded everyone, greatness doesn’t come without demands.

“There were cons for playing with Jordan. There were cons for playing with Kobe. There are always cons when you’re trying to win at the highest level.”

And for those in LeBron’s next locker room — wherever that may be — that’s both the challenge and the privilege.

This article first appeared on LAFB Network and was syndicated with permission.

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