1. The Lakers don’t land a superstar in free agency or via trade
To be honest, this option is pretty realistic at this point in time, with many major free agents on the market seemingly spoken for if rumors are to be believed.
Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving are linked to the New York Knicks. Klay Thompson is rumored to be staying with the Golden State Warriors. Kawhi Leonard is reportedly leaning towards the Los Angeles Clippers according to numerous reports. Kemba Walker wants to be a Charlotte Hornet for life.
This leaves little to no superstar talent to help LeBron long term. If the Lakers miss out on an Anthony Davis trade, things could go bad very quickly.
Going empty handed on the trade market and in free agency would be catastrophic. Not only would the Lakers fans be furious, but LeBron James, above all else, would be livid that he could potentially waste another year of his illustrious career not in the playoffs.