The Los Angeles Lakers were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder, and it may be the final time LeBron James wears purple and gold. He is set to be an unrestricted free agent this summer, and the Lakers want to retool their roster around Luka Doncic. Is LeBron willing to take less money and be a role player next to number 77? If not, he may be playing elsewhere next season.
There is no simple decision here. King James is 41 years old, but still playing like a star. He was the best player in the first-round playoff series against the Rockets and the driving force behind LA pulling the upset without their two best players for the majority of the series. James couldn't reach those heights against the defending champion Thunder, which further complicates the upcoming choice.
LeBron is an unrestricted free agent this summer. He is free to sign with any team and will have no shortage of suitors. King James has to decide what type of contract he wants and where he wants to play. If the goal is to maximize his earnings, that likely means leaving the Lakers. Fans thinking that he isn’t a flight risk are deluding themselves. Everyone may have just witnessed his final game with the Lakers.
LeBron James could be done playing for the Lakers
James wants to chase a fifth championship. His agent, Rich Paul, made that clear last summer. The Lakers were blown out by the Thunder, and King James admitted LA needs more talent.
LeBron brought a championship to the Lakers. He is a Laker legend and arguably the greatest player of all time. King James will have plenty of say about where he plays next season. He isn’t going to a small market team. LeBron has been happy in Los Angeles for eight years. That means something.
Coming back will be on the Lakers' terms. The 41-year-old will have to accept a pay cut and buy into being a role player around Luka Doncic. He did that this season before Luka’s season-ending hamstring injury. Does he sign up for it again when he isn’t making $52 million? The answer could be no.
This season was the first time that James wasn’t the best player and face of his NBA franchise. The Lakers became Luka’s team the moment they acquired him from Dallas. If LBJ wants to chase a title, he can’t expect to be the best player at this stage. His best shot to compete is likely with the Lakers unless he wants to take a minimum contract.
LeBron James holds the cards. He is an unrestricted free agent and can decide what works best for him and his family. The Los Angeles Lakers are prepared that they may not be the answer. LeBron brought them a title. It was a successful partnership, no matter how it ends.
The last moment was disappointing if that was his final game as a Laker, but things are unlikely to improve. All fans can do is remember the good times and hope LeBron decides to finish his career wearing purple and gold.
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