NBA (DR) / Basketball Forever (DR)
By Joël Pütz | Sports journalist
Could LeBron James end his career in Golden State? In any case, this is a rumor that has excited the NBA microcosm for several weeks. But the Dubs should put their hands in their pockets to afford the services of the superstar. A Lakers insider has indeed revealed a possible required quid pro quo… and it’s crazy.
After a few days of absence, he who had left the team for personal reasons, is back on the floor for the Lakers. Author of 18 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists in the victory against the Grizzlies, LeBron James has, however, not been as dominant as in the past… like this 2024-25 season which gives him a much more human image than during the rest of his fabulous career.
It must be said that the man is now almost 40 years old, he who will celebrate his birthday in a few days. Unfortunately, it’s hard to see the Purples and Golds fighting for the title this season while he’s still chasing one last championship ring. It is for this reason that rumors see him joining the Warriors from his great friend Stephen Curry for a few weeks.
The huge consideration needed to trade LeBron James
The problem, beyond the Lakers’ desire to part ways with the King, is that the latter is expensive ($48 million this season and a player option at 52 million in 2025-26). In addition to that, his future seems linked to that of his son Bronny… Suffice to say that setting up an exchange for him is quite a headache and which would also require a colossal counterpart, to say the least, as noted by an insider in Los Angeles:
Basketball Forever (via X) : The Golden State Warriors should offer the Lakers a consideration that would likely include Draymond Green, Jonathan Kuminga, Gary Payton II, Brandin Podziemski, Moses Moody and should be willing to get Bronny James in a trade to get LeBron James, according to Anthony Irwin.
Just that… Golden State fighting for the title despite an irregular start to the season (14-11, 8th in the West), it is hard to see the franchise giving in in the face of such demand. The LeBron-Curry duo is certainly incredible, but not in the long term… not to mention the level of play of the Chosen One which seems a little on the decline after so many years of reign. Suffice to say that the subject divides enormously among supporters.
@kyantewilson_ : Knowing the weird delusions of the Warriors, they would accept such a deal lol
@zgsportsmedia : It’s not worth it for LeBron or the Warriors
@Siggyv : No one would do that… not even on NBA 2K for fun
Recovering LeBron James would be possible for the Warriors, but not unless they sacrifice a large part of the roster. Which would suddenly reduce their chances of seeking a new title… not sure that the leaders will be tempted by the King.