Ex-ESPN Star Claims LeBron James Will Leave Los Angeles After Lakers Are Eliminated

Is the clock ticking on the LeBron James Era with the Los Angeles Lakers?

That’s what former ESPN star Cari Champion believes. Or, at least, that’s what somebody close to her believes.

“Just got a text from my friend. He says tonight is LeBron’s last game in purple and gold,” Champion tweeted.

Of course, a Lakers loss to the Denver Nuggets in Game 5 of their Western Conference playoffs series would end Los Angeles’ season.

It could also end James’ six-year run with the famed franchise.

James has one year remaining on the two-year extension he signed with the team. But he also has a player option that could see him become a free agent.

With time seemingly ticking on his NBA career and the Lakers unable to create a contending roster, James could seek greener pastures. Especially if his son, Bronny, remains in the NBA Draft.

“Not very long. I’m on the other side, opposite of the hill. So I’m not gonna play another 21 years, that’s for d— sure,” James said recently when asked about his career winding down. “But not very long. I don’t know when that door will close as far as when I’ll retire. But I don’t have much time left.”

But he hasn’t tipped his cap about any future plans.

“I am a Laker and I’m happy and been very happy being a Laker the last six years and hopefully it stays that way,” James said in February. “But I don’t have the answer to how long it is or which uniform I’ll be in. Hopefully [it] is with the Lakers. It’s a great organization, so many greats. But we’ll see.”

That’s not exactly a ringing endorsement.

For now, James can extend his run in LA by staving off elimination one more time. But sooner or later, a decision has to be made.