LeBron James is probably going to be a free agent this offseason. His agent, Rich Paul, accidentally confirmed that the greatest NBA player of this generation is likely going to opt out of his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Meanwhile, a surprising suitor has supposedly emerged!
James, 39, is widely expected to turn down his player option for next season. That would allow him to test the market before deciding on where to finish his career, even if that ultimately means a return the Lakers when everything is said and done. Paul seemingly confirmed that belief on Saturday night by saying that his client will be a free agent.
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It has been reported that James wants to play two more seasons in the league. The opportunity to play at least one year with his son, Bronny, is something that would also be of great value.
James has to make a decision on his $51.4 million player option by June 29. Should he decline, like Paul implied, that will open things up to other teams beyond Los Angeles.
According to Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer, the 76ers could be in the market for the four-time MVP. Paul George seems to be Philadelphia’s primary target.
However, Pompey reported that the organization has “their eyes on other lucrative-salary impact players” like James and OG Anunoby. While the rest of his column was rooted in opinion, his knowledge of the Sixers’ interest in the almost 40-year-old legend was presented as fact.
Other potential suitors include Golden State, New York, Oklahoma City, Phoenix and Chicago. Any mutual interest between those teams and LeBron James is unclear. There is no telling where he could end up.
It seems inevitable that James will stay where he is on a new deal. Time will tell!