Guess what? LeBron James will remain with the Los Angeles Lakers beyond this week’s NBA trade deadline, according to sources close to the situation.
The four-time MVP, now 40 years old, and the oldest player in the league is committed to staying with the Lakers, solidifying his role alongside the recently acquired Luka Dončić to form an electrifying new duo in Los Angeles.
As you know James, who signed a two-year extension with the Lakers during the offseason, effectively holds a no-trade clause as part of his deal. This move was confirmed as the trade deadline approached, squashing any rumors of James moving elsewhere.
Guess we’ll see him on the court with Luka after all.
Get this, prior to the extension, there were discussions regarding a potential trade. In February 2024, the Golden State Warriors expressed interest in acquiring the superstar. However, conversations between Lakers owner Jeanie Buss and Warriors owner Joe Lacob ultimately led to James’ representative, Rich Paul, informing Lacob that LeBron had no intention of leaving Los Angeles.
As part of his current contract, James has a player option for the 2025-26 season, which could extend his career into a record-setting 23rd year in the league.
Wow. Father Time, who?
James’ confirmed as not being traded from the Lakers comes just days after the stunning three-team trade that brought Dončić to Los Angeles, sending Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks in a move that shocked the basketball world. James was reportedly informed of the trade while having dinner with family after the Lakers’ win against the Knicks, catching him by surprise.
Dončić, who turns 26 later this month, has long admired James, calling him his “idol.” The two share rare company in NBA history, as they are among only three players to average at least 25 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists per game over their careers, with Oscar Robertson being the other.
While James’ status remained firm, other trade rumors swirled around the league. On Sunday, the Sacramento Kings traded De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs in a multi-team deal, which also saw Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls heading to Sacramento. Jimmy Butler and Cameron Johnson are also players to watch, with the Phoenix Suns and Brooklyn Nets making moves ahead of the deadline.
Despite all the trade buzz, it’s clear that LeBron James isn’t going anywhere – and with Luka Dončić now by his side, Lakers fans have plenty to be excited about moving forward.
As for Anthony Davis, that next matchup between the Lakers and Mavericks is going to be special.
