Mychal Thompson predicts LeBron James’ Lakers future: “I would be shocked”

Two-time NBA champion Mychal Thompson predicted LeBron James’ future with the Lakers as he exercised his $52.6 million player option on Monday. The former MVP has been LA’s star man for the past few seasons and is expected to lead the team alongside Luka Doncic.

In an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda, Thompson discussed his former team’s future as they enter a new era. Since their exit in the first round, Los Angeles has endured major changes with new owners coming in at the helm and many players leaving in free agency. Meanwhile, Deandre Ayton is set to fill the hole left by Anthony Davis in February, as the Lakers look to build a title-contending team.

A Bahamian just like Ayton, Mychal Thompson spent five seasons with the LA Lakers, winning a couple of titles. After retirement, he built a successful broadcasting career and is still employed by the Lakers as a radio color commentator.

Trending

During the interview, Thompson spoke on various topics about his former team, including LeBron James' future with the franchise. Explaining that he would be "shocked" if he were to leave Los Angeles, the former center claimed James would "retire" as a Laker.

"I expect him to be there the whole season. I would be shocked if he asks out or if he is moved. I expect him to retire as a Laker," he revealed.

As told to Sportskeeda's Mark Medina, Thompson reaffirmed his faith in James staying put in LA. However, given the league's unpredictability, one cannot take anything for granted. The NBA has seen some big names being waived, but LeBron James should stay put in LA for this season.

LeBron James' agent Rich Paul offers cryptic take on his future amid one-year extension

LeBron James will be looking to add another NBA title to his resume before the end of his career. Entering his 23rd season in the league, time is running out for the King, but with Doncic and Ayton on the team, the Lakers could make a run for the championship this coming season.

However, despite the new look team, James' agent Rich Paul offered a cryptic take on his future, claiming that his camp would want to "evaluate" the best option.

"We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what's best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career," he said via Sham Cahrania.

Although expected to opt in for his player option, Paul's comment doesn't provide a concrete answer and hints at an unpredictable summer ahead.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback

About the author

Arian Kashyap

Arian Kashyap is a basketball journalist at Sportskeeda with over two years of experience at Essentially Sports and Spice Bite and a Bachelor's in Physical Education and Sports Sciences.

Arian's favorite team is the Miami Heat and it’s mainly down to Dwyane Wade being his favorite player of all time. Arian loved how explosive Wade was as a player and he had all the attributes, whether that be shooting, defending or passing. Arian really liked how he won titles both with and without a dynasty behind him.

Arian has also worked with Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools and was the manager for a Delhi-based women’s team called Garwhal Untied. Garwhal won the Delhi league and were runners-up during his tenure.

Arian has judged essay writing competitions for the Commonwealth Students Welfare Group of India in 2023 and was a part of the U-14 team for the Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools academy that qualified for the AIFF Round in 2023.

When not working or watching sports, Arian likes riding his motorcycle and reading.

Know More