LeBron James could join a surprising team in free agency

The Los Angeles Lakers are facing some uncertainty with two of their best players.

Austin Reaves will likely opt out of the final year of his contract, and they'll have to decide whether to give him a big deal or let him walk.

As for LeBron James, he'll be an unrestricted free agent and is reportedly upset with the team. He'll have no shortage of suitors, including some surprising ones.

According to an exclusive report by The Daily Mail, a source close to LeBron revealed that he might even stay in Los Angeles. However, he'd play on the other side of town and join the Clippers instead.

LeBron James might consider signing with the Clippers 

“They have a great draft position, and to play with Kawhi Leonard and a few other pieces they might be able to add could be pretty awesome,” the source said. “There are many avenues to pursue.”

The Clippers landed the No. 5 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft lottery, and with a healthy Darius Garland and Leonard, they might be in a position to compete for a championship.

Also, LeBron already played for coach Tyronn Lue in Cleveland, and he wouldn't have to relocate.

Nevertheless, not all hope is lost for a potential return to the Lakers, according to the same source.

“There is a way back to the Lakers,” the source told the Mail. “He wasn’t afforded a full healthy team with Luka [Doncic] out with injury.”

Whatever the case, James will most likely take his time before making a decision.

He still hasn't announced whether he'll retire or come back for another year, though it's hard to believe he'll walk away without a farewell tour.

Also, he turned back the clock in the playoffs, averaging 23.2 points, 7.3 assists and 6.7 rebounds in 10 games, according to StatMuse, so he clearly still has plenty left in the tank.