NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Predicted to Trade $101 Million Star to Bolster Squad Amid Shifting Team Priorities
The
Los Angeles Lakers
may be gearing up for a franchise-defining decision, with reports suggesting that
four-time NBA champion LeBron James
could be on the trade block during the 2025-26 season. Despite opting into his $52.6 million player option this summer, the veteran's future in Los Angeles remains uncertain.
Why LeBron James Could Be Moved
Bleacher Report's Grant Hughes believes LeBron James' name belongs in trade discussions, not for publicity but for basketball reasons.
'Shoehorning
LeBron James
into any list is good business because his name drives traffic and interest,' Hughes explained. 'But his inclusion here isn't about clicks. It's fully warranted because the Los Angeles Lakers are clearly no longer his team, and because he's playing out the last year of his deal before 2026 free agency.' (H/t: Sporting News)
Hughes further pointed out that James' $52.6 million salary and expiring contract make him a realistic trade candidate, even if his presence complicates negotiations.
Potential Trade Destinations
LeBron James at the Playoffs against the Timberwolves (Image via Imagn).
Teams with veteran cores or championship aspirations are expected to closely monitor LeBron James' availability:
• Cleveland Cavaliers – a potential homecoming
• Miami Heat – where James enjoyed past success
• Golden State Warriors – a veteran-heavy roster still hungry for playoff contention
Los Angeles Lakers' Long-Term Direction
The
Los Angeles Lakers
are reportedly committed to building around Luka Doncic, their new centerpiece. This shift means James is no longer the franchise's top priority.
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The organization is looking ahead at younger trade targets who can extend the team's championship window.
Possible Trade Targets for Los Angeles:
Player
Team
Why the Lakers Could Be Interested
Jimmy Butler
Miami Heat
Proven playoff leader with defensive edge
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Milwaukee Bucks
MVP-caliber forward to pair with Doncic
LeBron James' Current Role
Despite the trade speculation, LeBron James is still essential to the Lakers' immediate success. At 40 years old, he remains a critical piece if Los Angeles hopes to capture its first championship since 2020. However, age and the looming shadow of retirement suggest the franchise cannot hinge its future solely on him.
What It Means Moving Forward
The Los Angeles Lakers may hold off on any summer trade, but a midseason move remains firmly on the table. With James labeled as a 'ring-chasing' star, the possibility of him joining another contender at the deadline feels more realistic than ever.
Also read:
NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors Predicted to Resolve Jonathan Kuminga Saga Before Pivotal February Deadline
Los Angeles finds itself in transition: balancing James' present impact with the need to secure its future. Whether James finishes his career in Los Angeles or elsewhere will depend on how aggressively the Lakers pursue a new era centered on Luka Doncic.
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