LeBron James has a player option expiring on 29th of June.
The inevitable has happened. The Los Angeles Lakers were trying to beat a record that has stood to date. Only to fall flat in game 5 of the 1st round of the playoffs against the Denver Nuggets. Now, the question turns to LeBron James and his future. The 39-year-old has a player option coming up. With the way the Lakers have played all season, what the superstar does next is doing the rounds among their fans.
A reporter asked the superstar during the post-game press conference if this was the last game they have seen LeBron James in a Lakers jersey, he replied;
I'm not gonna answer that. Appreciate it.LeBron James at the post-game presser
That answer has left Los Angeles Lakers fans worried, as their superstar left the question on a cliffhanger. Now all sorts of rumors and discussions will start doing the rounds until that player option deadline passes.
Then he will join his Team USA teammates for training before the Paris Olympics. The all-time leading scorer will have time on his hands to think about his future. He mentioned that he will be spending time with his family initially.
Was there any thought that tonight was your last game with the Lakers?
LeBron James: “I’m not going to answer that.” pic.twitter.com/tOySUdsmbI
— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) April 30, 2024
With the way this season panned out, James will be looking for 2 situations to go in his favor. One is that the team commits to building a team that can contend for another championship. The second is the situation surrounding Bronny James.
LeBron James would seek assurances from the Los Angeles Lakers
The 4-time champion would like it if he retired at least as a 5-time champion. That would be the talking point as they head into early discussions with their season over. One of the biggest points that the 4-time Finals MVP will talk about is the quality of his supporting cast. Time and again the Lakers were linked to several superstars, only to ultimately not make a trade this season.
With options opening up a little, the Lakers could make a play for a 3rd superstar. James and Anthony Davis need a 3rd running mate who can help balance the scoring load. They would also need some quality backups after it became their single biggest issue throughout this season. After all, they have to be able to beat the Denver Nuggets next season.
If the Los Angeles Lakers can make those moves, their superstar might return for his 22nd season in their colors. Otherwise, their fans will turn to their front office for letting the biggest superstar in the NBA leave.