LeBron James and the Lakers: The Possibility of a Departure Looms

A recent report by ESPN by Baxter Holmes revealed deep tensions within the Los Angeles Lakers organization, particularly between owner Jeanie Buss and LeBron James. These revelations could well push the 40-year-old superstar to consider leaving the City of Angels.

Strained Relations Between Buss and James

As announced yesterday, according to sources cited by Holmes, Jeanie Buss reportedly felt bitter about the influence of LeBron James and Klutch Sports on the franchise. The Lakers executive was also upset by the perception that James had chosen to come to Los Angeles in 2018, rather than the organization being able to take credit for his acquisition.

The report indicates that Buss felt James escaped criticism regarding his role in the failed Russell Westbrook trade. Even more troubling, she reportedly « privately considered » not extending James’s contract, or even trading him to the Los Angeles Clippers in 2022.

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Although Buss denied this information, the damage seems done from James’s perspective. The landscape in Los Angeles has fundamentally changed, with new ownership in place and Luka Dončić now establishing himself as the organization’s undisputed centerpiece.

Cleveland, a Prime Destination for the End of His Career

This situation could pave the way for a more romantic return of LeBron James to Cleveland, where he began his career. The Cavaliers are going through a disappointing season, far from their 64-win performance the previous year, and could benefit from the contribution of their former legend.

James will be a free agent in July and could sign for the minimum salary with Cleveland, while announcing his retirement at the end of the 2025-2026 season. This option would offer him a legitimate chance to help the Cavaliers reach the Finals in a more accessible Eastern Conference.

« When I came to this organization, my whole mindset was about restoring excellence … Quite frankly, I don’t really care about articles … I don’t care how somebody feels about me. If you know me personally, then you know what I’m about » – LeBron James on ESPN’s Buss family story pic.twitter.com/lXCNBJgx1i

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) January 23, 2026

A return to Cleveland would allow James to benefit from the adoration and gratitude of the fans, replacing the power he will never find elsewhere. The image of the savior returning for one last dance, this time with a sense of finality, would add even more intensity to the story. This conclusion, where it all began, would represent a natural ending for one of the greatest careers in NBA history.