With how disappointing of a 2021-22 NBA season it’s been for the Los Angeles Lakers, there’s been an increasing amount of attention placed on where LeBron James may end up playing to finish his career.
James recently stated at an NBA All-Star Weekend media availability “the door’s not closed” when it comes to the idea of returning to the Cleveland Cavaliers once again.
However, James did confirm that he will spend the final year of his playing career where his son, Bronny, ends up playing—stating he will do “whatever it takes” to make it happen.
“My last year will be played with my son,” James told James Lloyd of The Athletic. “Wherever Bronny is at, that’s where I’ll be. I would do whatever it takes to play with my son for one year. It’s not about the money at that point.”
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: ‘Door’s Not Closed’: LeBron James Could Return To Cavs?
Bronny, who currently is on track to be eligible for the 2024 NBA Draft, will be drafted after LeBron’s current contract with the Los Angeles Lakers comes to an end. If LeBron were to remain on one-year deals or sign a 1+1 deal where he declines the player option, he could maintain flexibility to sign wherever Bronny is drafted.
The NBA Draft taking place before free agency will enable LeBron to know where his son will be playing before committing to a contract.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: ‘Door’s Not Closed’: LeBron James Could Return To Cavs?
One of the key factors in all of this will be whether Bronny ends up making it to the NBA. It’s not easy, not matter who you are, to make it all the way to the highest level of basketball in the world. The appeal of landing LeBron in what essentially becomes a package deal may make Bronny one of the more intriguing options to consider.
If LeBron James were to depart from the Los Angeles Lakers as a free agent after his current contract ends after the 2022-23 season, they are set to be in for a rough next decade. The team depleted their draft capital to acquire Anthony Davis and will have to rid themselves of the Russell Westbrook experience.
