Stein: There's 'growing anticipation' LeBron James could leave Lakers
It is still anyone's guess what NBA uniform LeBron James will wear next season.
Earlier this season, there seemed to be a very good chance that LeBron James would leave the Los Angeles Lakers this summer. The team struggled to win half its games in December, January and February combined, and some felt there were signs that added up to James heading back to the Cleveland Cavaliers. But the Lakers' success in March has seemingly poured some cold water on the rumors of James leaving the team.
On the other hand, a recent report by NBA insider Marc Stein on his Substack has renewed the speculation that the 41-year-old will depart in a few months. "The Lakers' LeBron James. The [Los Angeles] Clippers' Kawhi Leonard.
And, of course, Milwaukee's Giannis Antetokounmpo. … There is a growing anticipation in numerous front offices, league sources say, that two or even all three of the above marquee names could land with new teams next season. " James will become a free agent at the conclusion of this season.
While the Cavaliers and perhaps the Golden State Warriors seem to be in play for his services, there is the reality of the almighty dollar, and that reality may help keep him put. Unless the Cavs make some big moves, the most they could offer James is the veteran minimum salary — or perhaps the taxpayer mid-level exception. The Lakers, on the other hand, are projected to have roughly $50 million in salary cap space.