Four teams interested in LeBron James!
July 6, 2023; North Augusta, S.C., USA; NBA star LeBron James coaches Strive for Greatness during the Strive for Greatness and Mokan Elite basketball game at the fourth day of the Nike Peach Jam at Riverview Park Activities Center. Mandatory Credit: Katie Goodale-USA TODAY Network
While LeBron James has activated his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-2026 season, the four-time MVP’s future with the Lakers is already generating much speculation. According to Brandon Robinson, four teams have already contacted Rich Paul, the superstar’s agent, to explore trade possibilities. These teams are Dallas, Golden State, Cleveland, and the Los Angeles Clippers.
We may know the four teams that would potentially trade for LeBron James if he became available thanks to @ScoopB, who replied to his own recent post by simply saying, quote:
Mavs
Warriors
Cavs
Clippers https://t.co/kzApEj7qeR— Let’s Talk Knicks (LTK) (@LetsTalkKnicks_) July 13, 2025
This situation comes as James looks to evaluate Los Angeles’ real ambitions. As Rich Paul explained to ESPN: « We understand the challenge of winning now while preparing for the future. We really want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage of his life and career. He wants every season he has left to count, and the Lakers understand that, support it, and want what’s best for him. »
Golden State and Cleveland in the running
Among interested franchises, the Golden State Warriors are well-positioned. ESPN had already mentioned this possibility, where a Curry-Green-LeBron trio could have one last dance together. The three players would welcome playing together, and LeBron, like Curry, had discussed it last October.
The Cleveland option is also being considered, and the Cavaliers have several roster assets that could interest the Lakers. In an Eastern conference left wide open after serious injuries to Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton, LeBron would likely have better chances of reaching the Finals by returning to his native Ohio.
For now, the 40-year-old player hasn’t officially requested a trade and hasn’t discussed this possibility with his agent according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. James is in observation mode, closely monitoring the Lakers’ offseason moves to determine if the team is trying to build a championship-contending roster.
The Lakers have signed Jake LaRavia and Deandre Ayton in free agency, but James feels the team’s mindset is more focused on the future. Despite the absence of an official trade request, opposing front offices continue to monitor his availability, aware that a change of scenery could occur if ambitions don’t align.
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