After eight seasons with the purple and gold, LeBron James will move on from the Lakers to don another team’s colors. Jeannie Buss, controlling owner, President, and Governor of the Lakers released a statement in response, thanking James for his many years with the team.
“LeBron James is one of the greatest athletes in history,” Buss said. “We will always be thankful for his eight years with the Lakers – including the title he led us to in 2020 under the toughest imaginable circumstances and the countless records he broke in purple and gold. We wish him all the best in the future, both on the court and off. He will always be a cherished part of the Lakers family.”
Where Will LeBron Play?
Speculation is rampant as to where James might land. The Golden State Warriors have been pushing hard to assemble a “Big Four” of James, Curry, Draymond Green, and Anthony Davis. Draymond Green recently declined a $27.7 million player option, presumably to make room for James under the non-taxpayer mid-level exception (MLE).
If the deal can be made to unite these four players, they would need to make a push for a championship this year. At 42 in December, it’s uncertain whether James will continue after this season, and the youngest of the four is Anthony Davis, at 33. That said, even with their advanced ages, I think they could be contenders, especially if they hang on to Porziņğis and he manages to stay healthy.
Still, it could prove hard to assemble this “Big Four”, as the Wizards are reportedly unwilling to trade Anthony Davis.
I, for one, would love to see James and Curry run it back after their 2024 Olympics collaboration. To see two of the greatest of all time play together during the regular season after facing each other so many times in the NBA Finals would be a treat.
For recent updates on the front-running team in the LeBron signing race, check out this post.