Shifting tides: A new report suggests LeBron James’ departure from the Lakers is increasingly probable, stirring speculation in the sports world.

Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Lakers clash on the basketball court / Ronald Martinez/GettyImages

LeBron James has had a longer stint with the Los Angeles Lakers than many expected. His current tenure with the Lakers is even longer than his time with the Miami Heat, and it is only one year shorter than his first stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers. However, it appears that this surprising tenure may come to an end after the 2023-24 season.

The Lakers’ struggles this season have raised questions about their status as title contenders in the Western Conference. With LeBron having a player option for the 2024-25 season, insiders who closely follow his career are starting to speculate about him leaving LA.

ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, who has closely followed LeBron’s career, recently discussed the likelihood of him leaving the Lakers on his podcast. This is a significant development and should not be taken lightly.

While many factors can come into play before LeBron makes his decision, the situation feels similar to his last year in Cleveland when everyone expected him to leave and sign with the Lakers. It is believed that lifestyle reasons influenced LeBron’s decision to join the Lakers, as he and his family could enjoy living in Los Angeles while he figured out the basketball aspect. This move has worked out well for LeBron, as he has won a championship, worked on “Space Jam: A New Legacy,” and witnessed his children growing up in LA.

One of his children, Bronny James, is on the verge of playing in the NBA and is currently playing for the USC Trojans. Bronny could potentially be one of the most intriguing non-lottery prospects in NBA history this year.

LeBron’s desire to play with Bronny has been evident for some time, and he will do what it takes to make it happen. If Bronny declares for the 2024 NBA Draft, LeBron will likely sign with the team that drafts him. However, after Windhorst’s comments, there is a possibility that LeBron may leave without taking this route. For instance, if Bronny decides to play one more year at USC, LeBron could sign a one-year deal with a team like the Dallas Mavericks to chase another championship with one of his friends before Bronny enters the league.

This situation presents an intriguing scenario, and it is becoming evident that if the Lakers do not draft Bronny in 2024, LeBron may be inclined to explore other options.