Lebron future question
Moderators: MoneyTalks41890, HartfordWhalers, Texas Chuck, BullyKing, Andre Roberstan, loserX, Trader_Joe, Mamba4Goat, pacers33granger
Lebron future question
-
- Starter
- Posts: 2,394
- And1: 907
- Joined: May 02, 2020
-
Lebron future question
I understand that this is baseless nonsense at this point in the season and above all that a legendary player like Lebron transcends pure basketball motives and will do what he wants, will he prioritize his life in LA over winning at basketball?
Would a guy like Bronn who is extremely ambitious and competitive want one last dance..? If that is his ambition, the LAKERS are probably not the best place, his fit with Luka (yes, I know it's very early) is less than ideal, they are redundant and do not complement each other at all... similar in virtues and defects...
I'm sure this half season with Lebron can be invaluable for Luka, since he could learn a lot about leadership, conditioning etc... but I think they have to separate their paths from there, if they want to maximize themselves (especially time is running out for Lebron)..
I would love to know what you think about this (the opinion of the board, it gives me clarity)... So which team would Lebron be interested in going to? I
Is this a pipe dream and he is not going anywhere?
What would be the current value, for maybe 1 or 2 seasons?
I personally can only think of 3 destinations that could make sense for him. The WARRIORS?..
I think that ship sailed with the Butler trade but... The CAVS? Back home, for one last run..
And my favorite The MAVS..? I
Ironically, his fit on the court would be perfect, he would give the Mavs much of what they lost with Luka, there are his 2 good friends and former teammates with whom he was a champion, he also has a relationship with the coach and it would definitely help with the terrible view that people in general have of the Mavs office...
Thoughts?
How would the trade be if it happens..?
Would a guy like Bronn who is extremely ambitious and competitive want one last dance..? If that is his ambition, the LAKERS are probably not the best place, his fit with Luka (yes, I know it's very early) is less than ideal, they are redundant and do not complement each other at all... similar in virtues and defects...
I'm sure this half season with Lebron can be invaluable for Luka, since he could learn a lot about leadership, conditioning etc... but I think they have to separate their paths from there, if they want to maximize themselves (especially time is running out for Lebron)..
I would love to know what you think about this (the opinion of the board, it gives me clarity)... So which team would Lebron be interested in going to? I
Is this a pipe dream and he is not going anywhere?
What would be the current value, for maybe 1 or 2 seasons?
I personally can only think of 3 destinations that could make sense for him. The WARRIORS?..
I think that ship sailed with the Butler trade but... The CAVS? Back home, for one last run..
And my favorite The MAVS..? I
Ironically, his fit on the court would be perfect, he would give the Mavs much of what they lost with Luka, there are his 2 good friends and former teammates with whom he was a champion, he also has a relationship with the coach and it would definitely help with the terrible view that people in general have of the Mavs office...
Thoughts?
How would the trade be if it happens..?
Old Mike Lorenzo
Re: Lebron future question
-
- RealGM
- Posts: 17,408
- And1: 7,156
- Joined: Mar 30, 2006
- Location: Whereever you go - there you are
Re: Lebron future question
It looks like he really wants to stay in LA.
I'd also add that a 41 yo LeBron making 35% money isn't that great of an asset for a title contender. Based strictly on on-court play he'll be overpaid (perhaps by a significant amount depending on how much he declines with another year). Obviously he's got a ton of off-court value but that's less important for a title contender (who are hoping to increase the medium and long-term franchise esteem by winning a title).
I'd also add that a 41 yo LeBron making 35% money isn't that great of an asset for a title contender. Based strictly on on-court play he'll be overpaid (perhaps by a significant amount depending on how much he declines with another year). Obviously he's got a ton of off-court value but that's less important for a title contender (who are hoping to increase the medium and long-term franchise esteem by winning a title).
Re: Lebron future question
-
- Veteran
- Posts: 2,747
- And1: 2,269
- Joined: Jan 25, 2025
-
Re: Lebron future question
LeBron moved to LA in 2019 because he prioritized all aspects of life. He isn't going to leave LA 7 years later and a shell of himself as a basketball player.
Re: Lebron future question
-
- Head Coach
- Posts: 6,754
- And1: 2,494
- Joined: Jan 18, 2019
-
Re: Lebron future question
I think lebron stays and luka leaves this summer. Dont think he want anything to do with anyone involved in the trade, just doesnt seem to enjoy playing atm, no joy in the game. So luka forces his way to spurs, and lebron get to still run lakers
Re: Lebron future question
-
- Senior
- Posts: 519
- And1: 515
- Joined: Jun 23, 2016
-
Re: Lebron future question
There is no evidence that LeBron and Luka on the same team are redundant. LeBron is an amazing player off ball, often asks for a starting PG since 2020 (and also did that in his 2nd Cavs stint). Both players have raved about playing together. The fit with Kyrie, who is much more ball dominant and ISO player got them to the finals, imagine what he can do with LeBron after acclimating.
LeBron will also not ring chase in the final years of his career. He will do his best to force the Lakers into being competitive - and I think the Lakers already feel some of this pressure with Doncic just to re-sign him. The only other scenario I can see for him is going back to Cleveland for one final year, in case the Cavs can't get over the hump this year (or this and next) and he comes back for one final championship with a squad that is only missing a leader.
LeBron will also not ring chase in the final years of his career. He will do his best to force the Lakers into being competitive - and I think the Lakers already feel some of this pressure with Doncic just to re-sign him. The only other scenario I can see for him is going back to Cleveland for one final year, in case the Cavs can't get over the hump this year (or this and next) and he comes back for one final championship with a squad that is only missing a leader.
Re: Lebron future question
- MasterIchiro
- RealGM
- Posts: 21,388
- And1: 6,845
- Joined: Jan 18, 2013
- Location: The Dirty Water
-
Re: Lebron future question
LeBron is not going to forfeit 52.6 million dollars over a ring.
$ is numero uno.
But after he plays out next season, I think we will see him sign cheaply in Cleveland to chase a couple rings as a Udonis Haslem. Long shelf-life.
He definitely wants to add rings to his legacy given MJ is 6-0 in the NBA Finals, and seen universally as a winner.
But money stands in the way of a premature exit.
$ is numero uno.
But after he plays out next season, I think we will see him sign cheaply in Cleveland to chase a couple rings as a Udonis Haslem. Long shelf-life.
He definitely wants to add rings to his legacy given MJ is 6-0 in the NBA Finals, and seen universally as a winner.
But money stands in the way of a premature exit.
It has been written...
Re: Lebron future question
-
- RealGM
- Posts: 10,656
- And1: 5,065
- Joined: Jan 07, 2012
- Location: Atl
-
Re: Lebron future question
Apz wrote:I think lebron stays and luka leaves this summer. Dont think he want anything to do with anyone involved in the trade, just doesnt seem to enjoy playing atm, no joy in the game. So luka forces his way to spurs, and lebron get to still run lakers
If Luka wants to leave smarter for him sign extension first then force a trade. It's only his path to recover his super max money.
Re: Lebron future question
-
- RealGM
- Posts: 10,656
- And1: 5,065
- Joined: Jan 07, 2012
- Location: Atl
-
Re: Lebron future question
MasterIchiro wrote:LeBron is not going to forfeit 52.6 million dollars over a ring.
$ is numero uno.
But after he plays out next season, I think we will see him sign cheaply in Cleveland to chase a couple rings as a Udonis Haslem. Long shelf-life.
He definitely wants to add rings to his legacy given MJ is 6-0 in the NBA Finals, and seen universally as a winner.
But money stands in the way of a premature exit.
If he want to chase rings he signs cheap with Denver or OKC IMO
Re: Lebron future question
-
- RealGM
- Posts: 10,656
- And1: 5,065
- Joined: Jan 07, 2012
- Location: Atl
-
Re: Lebron future question
Trade wise, which contender could easily match his salary? I don't expect lakers to get assets in a LeBron trade but imagine they want expiring mostly
Re: Lebron future question
- MasterIchiro
- RealGM
- Posts: 21,388
- And1: 6,845
- Joined: Jan 18, 2013
- Location: The Dirty Water
-
Re: Lebron future question
kobe_vs_jordan wrote:MasterIchiro wrote:LeBron is not going to forfeit 52.6 million dollars over a ring.
$ is numero uno.
But after he plays out next season, I think we will see him sign cheaply in Cleveland to chase a couple rings as a Udonis Haslem. Long shelf-life.
He definitely wants to add rings to his legacy given MJ is 6-0 in the NBA Finals, and seen universally as a winner.
But money stands in the way of a premature exit.
If he want to chase rings he signs cheap with Denver or OKC IMO
I suspect his brand demands he look homebound, and will use Cleveland as a shield to blunt any appearances suggesting he's riding coat tails. But that's exactly what he will be doing. Just won't own up to it.
It has been written...
Re: Lebron future question
- zimpy27
- Forum Mod
- Posts: 45,436
- And1: 43,579
- Joined: Jul 13, 2014
Re: Lebron future question
He will stay with Luka.
Lakers team construction can work. Just need a C upgrade over Hayes.
Lakers team construction can work. Just need a C upgrade over Hayes.
"Let's play some basketball!" - Fergie
Re: Lebron future question
-
- RealGM
- Posts: 10,656
- And1: 5,065
- Joined: Jan 07, 2012
- Location: Atl
-
Re: Lebron future question
MasterIchiro wrote:kobe_vs_jordan wrote:MasterIchiro wrote:LeBron is not going to forfeit 52.6 million dollars over a ring.
$ is numero uno.
But after he plays out next season, I think we will see him sign cheaply in Cleveland to chase a couple rings as a Udonis Haslem. Long shelf-life.
He definitely wants to add rings to his legacy given MJ is 6-0 in the NBA Finals, and seen universally as a winner.
But money stands in the way of a premature exit.
If he want to chase rings he signs cheap with Denver or OKC IMO
I suspect his brand demands he look homebound, and will use Cleveland as a shield to blunt any appearances suggesting he's riding coat tails. But that's exactly what he will be doing. Just won't own up to it.
Brand already takes a hit the day he doesn’t secure a max.
Re: Lebron future question
-
- RealGM
- Posts: 14,551
- And1: 4,395
- Joined: Jun 19, 2012
Re: Lebron future question
zimpy27 wrote:He will stay with Luka.
Lakers team construction can work. Just need a C upgrade over Hayes.
What do you and others think about Deandre Ayton from Blazers?
I know his paid a lot and I'm not a huuuuge fan, but I think he needs a new team for motivation etc and him on Lakers playing with Luka/Bron would do wonders
Ayton as a starter and Hayes off the bench wouldn't mind It.
Ayton: $34m ... 26years ... 1year contract.
My Go Team
Magic, Jordan, Pippen, Duncan, Shaq
My Counter
Stockton, Kobe, Bird, Rodman, Dirk
Today's Team
Luka, SGA, Tatum, Giannis, Wemby
Magic, Jordan, Pippen, Duncan, Shaq
My Counter
Stockton, Kobe, Bird, Rodman, Dirk
Today's Team
Luka, SGA, Tatum, Giannis, Wemby
Re: Lebron future question
- Texas Chuck
- Senior Mod - NBA TnT Forum
- Posts: 92,371
- And1: 98,216
- Joined: May 19, 2012
- Location: Purgatory
-
Re: Lebron future question
I mean if anyone's brand needs no further burnishing its Lebron James. He has the best NBA resume of all-time and there really isn't a close 2nd. Only guy you can even possibly argue is Bill Russell.
I expect him to stay and retire a Laker, but no matter what he chooses to do his brand and legacy will be just fine.
I expect him to stay and retire a Laker, but no matter what he chooses to do his brand and legacy will be just fine.
ThunderBolt wrote:I’m going to let some of you in on a little secret I learned on realgm. If you don’t like a thread, not only do you not have to comment but you don’t even have to open it and read it. You’re welcome.
Re: Lebron future question
-
- RealGM
- Posts: 16,535
- And1: 13,893
- Joined: Feb 27, 2019
-
Re: Lebron future question
SlimShady83 wrote:zimpy27 wrote:He will stay with Luka.
Lakers team construction can work. Just need a C upgrade over Hayes.
What do you and others think about Deandre Ayton from Blazers?
I know his paid a lot and I'm not a huuuuge fan, but I think he needs a new team for motivation etc and him on Lakers playing with Luka/Bron would do wonders
Ayton as a starter and Hayes off the bench wouldn't mind It.
Ayton: $34m ... 26years ... 1year contract.
Doubtful there is a deal that works for both sides.
Edrees wrote:JRoy wrote:Monta Ellis have it all
I was hoping and expecting this to be one of the first replies. You did not disappoint. Jroy have it all.
Re: Lebron future question
-
- RealGM
- Posts: 14,551
- And1: 4,395
- Joined: Jun 19, 2012
Re: Lebron future question
JRoy wrote:Doubtful there is a deal that works for both sides.
Thought you guys really wanted to get rid of him and almost for anything, because his contract Is too big etc??
My Go Team
Magic, Jordan, Pippen, Duncan, Shaq
My Counter
Stockton, Kobe, Bird, Rodman, Dirk
Today's Team
Luka, SGA, Tatum, Giannis, Wemby
Magic, Jordan, Pippen, Duncan, Shaq
My Counter
Stockton, Kobe, Bird, Rodman, Dirk
Today's Team
Luka, SGA, Tatum, Giannis, Wemby
Re: Lebron future question
- zimpy27
- Forum Mod
- Posts: 45,436
- And1: 43,579
- Joined: Jul 13, 2014
Re: Lebron future question
SlimShady83 wrote:zimpy27 wrote:He will stay with Luka.
Lakers team construction can work. Just need a C upgrade over Hayes.
What do you and others think about Deandre Ayton from Blazers?
I know his paid a lot and I'm not a huuuuge fan, but I think he needs a new team for motivation etc and him on Lakers playing with Luka/Bron would do wonders
Ayton as a starter and Hayes off the bench wouldn't mind It.
Ayton: $34m ... 26years ... 1year contract.
I really like RW3, I think Lakers go for him.
"Let's play some basketball!" - Fergie
Re: Lebron future question
-
- RealGM
- Posts: 14,551
- And1: 4,395
- Joined: Jun 19, 2012
Re: Lebron future question
zimpy27 wrote:SlimShady83 wrote:zimpy27 wrote:He will stay with Luka.
Lakers team construction can work. Just need a C upgrade over Hayes.
What do you and others think about Deandre Ayton from Blazers?
I know his paid a lot and I'm not a huuuuge fan, but I think he needs a new team for motivation etc and him on Lakers playing with Luka/Bron would do wonders
Ayton as a starter and Hayes off the bench wouldn't mind It.
Ayton: $34m ... 26years ... 1year contract.
I really like RW3, I think Lakers go for him.
I was thinking of him, but would you start him though? I think his more of a bench player and we have that In Hayes.
My Go Team
Magic, Jordan, Pippen, Duncan, Shaq
My Counter
Stockton, Kobe, Bird, Rodman, Dirk
Today's Team
Luka, SGA, Tatum, Giannis, Wemby
Magic, Jordan, Pippen, Duncan, Shaq
My Counter
Stockton, Kobe, Bird, Rodman, Dirk
Today's Team
Luka, SGA, Tatum, Giannis, Wemby
Re: Lebron future question
- zimpy27
- Forum Mod
- Posts: 45,436
- And1: 43,579
- Joined: Jul 13, 2014
Re: Lebron future question
SlimShady83 wrote:zimpy27 wrote:SlimShady83 wrote:
What do you and others think about Deandre Ayton from Blazers?
I know his paid a lot and I'm not a huuuuge fan, but I think he needs a new team for motivation etc and him on Lakers playing with Luka/Bron would do wonders
Ayton as a starter and Hayes off the bench wouldn't mind It.
Ayton: $34m ... 26years ... 1year contract.
I really like RW3, I think Lakers go for him.
I was thinking of him, but would you start him though? I think his more of a bench player and we have that In Hayes.
Yeah I would definitely start him. He's a starting C you play for 18-20mpg.
"Let's play some basketball!" - Fergie
Re: Lebron future question
-
- Head Coach
- Posts: 6,754
- And1: 2,494
- Joined: Jan 18, 2019
-
Re: Lebron future question
kobe_vs_jordan wrote:Apz wrote:I think lebron stays and luka leaves this summer. Dont think he want anything to do with anyone involved in the trade, just doesnt seem to enjoy playing atm, no joy in the game. So luka forces his way to spurs, and lebron get to still run lakers
If Luka wants to leave smarter for him sign extension first then force a trade. It's only his path to recover his super max money.
He can never recover that 130m. In a snt he can go wherever he wants and that team will get him on the cheap so it still can contend. Think fox+ 1 1st or so. No reason to extend first, will just put him at the whim of gms again and the team trading for him getting talent and asset poor
Return to Trades and Transactions