Lakers should be worried about LeBron James’ future with the organization

Los Angeles Lakers have experienced an underwhelming season so far. Standing at 27-31, they have less than 30 games to fix the situation, despite starting the season as title favorites.

According to Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus latest piece, Klutch Sports, which represents LeBron James, is not satisfied with Rob Pelinka and the Lakers’ front office. The LA franchise did not make any moves to improve the team at trade deadline.

Pincus reported that Pelinka refused to trade Russell Westbrook for Houston Rockets guard John Wall. Wall is also represented by Klutch Sports. Wall hasn’t played an NBA game for a year now, being out of Houston’s games with the agreement of the franchise.

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During the All-Star Weekend, James spoke on his future as a basketball player. He expressed his will to play alongside his son Bronny James before the end of his career. Bronny will be draft eligible ahead of the 2024-25 season.

He also said he would definitely want another run with the Cleveland Cavaliers before retiring. The Cavaliers are already among the best teams in the East this season, headlined by Darius Garland, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.

“The door’s not closed on that,” James told The Athletic (h/t to ESPN) on Saturday when asked about a potential return to Cleveland. “I’m not saying I’m coming back and playing, I don’t know. I don’t know what my future holds. I don’t even know when I’m free.”

James will be eligible for a two-year deal that could max out at $97.1 million through the 2024-25 season. He has one more season in his current deal with the Lakers, worth $44 million.

After the Lakers won the title in 2020, James extended his contract for two seasons, through 2023. Since then, Anthony Davis—his co-superstar— suffered several injuries setbacks. Davis wasn’t at 100 percent during last season’s playoffs.

Recently, after a slow start to the season, he injured his foot and he has been sidelined for at least four weeks. The Lakers traded depth for star power last summer by acquiring Russell Westbrook from the Wizards.

According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, James’ latest media maneuvering has to do with putting pressure on the Lakers to be more aggressive next offseason.

“What James is doing is likely aimed at one primary goal: Force the Lakers into major action this summer. He tried to do it nicely and now he’s doing it harshly,” per Windhorst.

Regardless, James will have leverage going into the offseason. Maybe he’ll sign the extension and stay in LA. However, the Lakers will likely need to sacrifice more of their future to satisfy James.

 

Photo: AP

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