The Los Angeles Lakers appear to be on track for a disappointing conclusion to the 2023-24 NBA season, with LeBron James and his teammates facing difficulties in turning things around, despite relatively good health for both James and Anthony Davis this season.
As the NBA trade deadline approaches this Thursday, the Lakers are expected to be one of the more active teams in the league. Los Angeles is eager to strengthen their roster for the second half of the season and potentially make a deep run in the NBA playoffs.
If the Lakers continue to struggle, it could mark the end of the LeBron era in Los Angeles. The superstar forward has the option to opt-out of his contract this summer, giving him the freedom to explore other opportunities.
Additionally, LeBron’s son, Bronny James, will have the chance to enter the NBA Draft. This decision could influence LeBron’s choice to become a free agent and consider his options.
Despite LeBron’s desire to play alongside his son at the NBA level, ESPN’s Austin Rivers disagrees. Rivers believes that it may not be a good idea, expressing concern about the potential negativity that could come Bronny’s way. He suggests that Bronny should play elsewhere, where he can establish his own identity.
Rivers’ point is valid, especially considering that Bronny James doesn’t appear to be NBA-ready at the moment. He has struggled during his first season at the University of Southern California.
It will be intriguing to see what path LeBron James chooses this summer and how it will impact his career and the future of the Lakers.