LeBron James hopes to end his career with the Lakers but is unsure whether that will happen.

Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

LeBron James’ future with the Los Angeles Lakers has been a hot topic of discussion in recent weeks. In his press conference during All-Star weekend, James was asked about what lies ahead for him, and the 39-year-old is hoping he can retire as a Laker.

“I am a Laker, and I am happy, very happy, being a Laker the last six years and hopefully it stays that way,” James said. “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, with so many greats with it. I don’t know how it’s going to end, but it’s coming.”

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While James kept stressing here just how much he wants to remain with the franchise, he has refused to commit to them. LeBron said he didn’t know what he was going to do with his upcoming $51.4 million player option for 2024-25. Should he opt out of it, James, who joined the Lakers in 2018, would be an unrestricted free agent and could go wherever he wants.

I do believe that in an ideal world, LeBron would like to remain a Laker, but his future with them probably depends on whether he thinks they can compete for titles. That would require the front office to make moves to improve the roster, and while the Lakers signed Spencer Dinwiddie, they didn’t make any moves before the trade deadline.

NBA insider Jovan Buha revealed LeBron was frustrated by the Lakers’ inactivity at the deadline. He wanted the franchise to part with their 2029 first-round pick to get someone who would help them this season, where they sport a 30-26 record, but they held on to it.

What holding on to it does do, though, is give the Lakers three first-round picks that they can trade in this upcoming offseason. If they can use those picks and some players to get a bonafide star, I think LeBron would commit to them. The Lakers reportedly view Trae Young as a viable third star next to James and Anthony Davis, and I think the 20-time All-Star would be over the moon if they acquire him.

The Lakers Strongly Prefer That LeBron Retires With Them

If you’re wondering whether the Lakers want LeBron to stick around, the answer to that question appears to be a definitive yes. A report indicated the Lakers would strongly prefer that James retire with them.

“His statement to reporters regarding his contract is the only part that truly matters when it comes to the power dynamics in play here,” Amick wrote. “Team sources say the Lakers would strongly prefer that James retire in their jersey someday, meaning he holds all the cards until his contract situation gets figured out. The Lakers’ top decision makers have no illusions about that much.”

It wouldn’t be a good look for the Lakers should James decide to leave. As I said before, I think what they do in this offseason will determine whether he stays or goes. Go all in and make a big move, and LeBron stays. Continue to keep an eye on the future, and James would go to another team that will go all in.

There will be plenty of interest in his services if he chooses to leave, as LeBron is still playing at a very high level. In his 21st season, he is averaging 24.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, 7.8 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game, and can certainly win another title if he has the right team around him.