LeBron James’ future in Los Angeles may be coming to an end.
After being eliminated from the playoffs for the second year in a row at the hands of the Denver Nuggets, the NBA legend’s stay with the Lakers is in doubt.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported Tuesday that James may test free agency rather than opting for a $51 million contract with the Lakers for the 2024-25 season, suggesting where he will take his talents next. This sparked a debate about what to do.
It’s going to be another drama-filled NBA summer with James at the center. Oddsmakers at FanDuel Sportsbook & Casino Canada believe the four-time MVP is likely to remain in the purple and gold next season.
The Lakers are +150 favorites to have James on the roster for October’s season opener, but the odds of retaining the future Hall of Famer are much lower than they were a year ago.
After Los Angeles lost to Denver on Monday night. The Athletic reported The Lakers say they “badly” want James back and are open to potentially signing him to a three-year contract extension worth up to $164 million this summer.
| LeBron James’ next team odds |
|---|
| Los Angeles Lakers +150 |
| New York Knicks +950 |
| Cleveland Cavaliers +1100 |
| Miami Heat +1100 |
| Golden State Warriors +1300 |
| Atlanta Hawks +1900 |
| Chicago Bulls +1900 |
| Philadelphia 76ers +1900 |
| Dallas Mavericks +2200 |
| Los Angeles Clippers +2200 |
| Denver Nuggets +2200 |
| San Antonio Spurs +2200 |
| New Orleans Pelicans +2200 |
| Oklahoma City Thunder +2200 |
| Memphis Grizzlies +2200 |
But James may eventually break out of Hollywood, and there’s no doubt that dozens of teams will be lining up for his services, even as he approaches 40.
The New York Knicks (+950) have emerged as early favorites if James leaves Los Angeles.
The Knicks’ acquisition of James would likely require a sign-and-trade with the Lakers given their cap situation, and few teams could match their contract and asset trove in a potential deal.
A homecoming against the Cleveland Cavaliers (+1100) or Miami Heat (+1100) is also on the cards, according to FanDuel oddsmakers.
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Both teams are one step away from becoming true title contenders. If James returns to either city, it would be one of the biggest NBA storylines in recent league history.
The Golden State Warriors (+1300), who reportedly tried to acquire James before February’s trade deadline, are also considered to be a potential suitor.
