“About to see a LeBron James trade”: NBA fans brace for huge Lakers shakeup after Rich Paul’s cryptic comments

June 29, 2025

3

LeBron James opted into his $52.7 million player option with the LA Lakers in free agency to return for his eighth season with the franchise and 23rd in the NBA on Sunday. However, his agent Rich Paul’s comments sparked massive speculation about the Lakers superstar’s future with the team.

Paul clarified James’ stance. While he understands the Lakers are building for the future around Luka Doncic, he still intends to compete for championships.

“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Paul told ESPN. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all.”

Paul then cryptically thanked Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss and General Manager Rob Pelinka for their eight-year partnership with LeBron and him, saying they consider a team a "critical" part of his client's career.

Explore the NBA Draft 2024 with our free NBA Mock Draft Simulator & be the GM of your favorite NBA team.

The comments led to several fans wondering if LeBron's time in LA was up, especially if the team fails to improve next year. Here are some of the reactions to it:

Also read: "Savannah wants me to f**king retire": LeBron James' reported comments leaked after $52.6M decision

LeBron James 'uncertain' about Lakers roster: Report

ESPN's Shams Charania reported that LeBron James is "uncertain" about the Lakers' roster. LA has suffered consecutive first-round exits over the past two years and has made little to no effort to improve around the stars, first with Anthony Davis and now with Luka Doncic.

"I’m told LeBron wants to compete for a championship next season and is uncertain about the Lakers roster moving forward," Charania said on Sunday.

The Lakers haven't had much time with Doncic, though. It was a short turnaround, and they made an effort with Mark Williams, but the trade fell through. The Lakers are back in the mix during the offseason, addressing major holes. However, only one tradeable first-round pick has seemingly made it difficult for LA to make significant roster improvements.

The free agency class is also not as lucrative, and even if it was, the Lakers don't have the cap room to sign players. Nevertheless, shortly after LeBron James opted in, Dorian Finney-Smith opted out of his deal, opening the full $14.1 million non-taxpayer midlevel exception.

They can either re-sign Finney-Smith, and that exception goes away, or let him walk and sign a free agent like Nickeil Walker-Alexander. LA can also use parts of the exception on multiple players.

About the author

Arhaan Raje is an Assistant Content Manager and Senior Writer with Sportskeeda's NBA/WNBA team with four years of experience.

Arhaan focuses on features, trends, listicles, and the latest rumors and reports circling the league's top teams and players. He emphasizes detailed research to create impactful content for readers. A fan of Xs and Os, Arhaan provides technical deep dives in his reporting.

Arhaan completed his bachelor's degree in BBA in Media and Entertainment Management from Mumbai, India.

Arhaan admires the killer mentality of Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan. He respects LeBron James for being a role model on and off the court. The bold and decisive Gregg Popovich stands out as Arhaan's favorite basketball coach. LeBron's epic chase-down block in the 2016 NBA Finals has a special place in Arhaan's basketball memories.

He has interviewed former NBA Defensive Player of the Year Gary Payton and Ronnie 2K, the face of NBA2k and Marketing Director.

Sports isn't the only passion he has pursued professionally. Arhaan is also into performing arts in the music industry as a percussionist.

Know More

Los Angeles Lakers Fan? Check out the latest Lakers depth chart, schedule, and roster updates all in one place.