Charles Barkley urges LeBron James to leave Lakers amid lingering drama
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Los Angeles — NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley says it is time for LeBron James to “move on” from the Los Angeles Lakers, arguing that ongoing turmoil around the franchise has become an unnecessary burden for the four-time champion.
Barkley’s remarks were reported on August 28, 2025, by the New York Post, which framed the comments as a call for James to seek a fresh start elsewhere while the Lakers continue to wrestle with off-court drama.
LeBron, 40, is entering the final season of his current contract with Los Angeles. The team has missed the playoffs twice in the past four years, and speculation about roster changes and coaching stability has intensified during the offseason.
Neither James nor the Lakers have publicly responded to Barkley’s suggestion.
Source: New York Post
