TITLE: LeBron James Expected to Return for 24th NBA Season, Lakers Still Viewed as Favorites
SLUG: lebron-james-expected-24th-season-lakers
CONTENT:
LeBron James is widely anticipated to lace up for a 24th NBA campaign, and league insiders continue to view the Los Angeles Lakers as the frontrunner to keep the 41-year-old forward in purple and gold.
During an appearance on “The Rich Eisen Show,” ESPN’s Shams Charania said “all the indications” gathered throughout the year suggest James will play at least one more season. Charania added that remaining in Los Angeles is “probably” the four-time champion’s preference, noting the Lakers have publicly signaled they want him back.
The key issue now appears to be the type of deal James might accept. NBA reporter Jake Fischer told HoopsHype there is a “prevailing sentiment” around the league that James could enhance his title chances by taking a minimum-salary contract in free agency, a move that would represent a significant financial concession.
James has not committed publicly to any decision since the Lakers were eliminated from the playoffs. “With my future, I don’t know,” he said after Los Angeles was swept by Oklahoma City. “I’ll go back and recalibrate with my family and talk with them and spend some time with them.” The 20-time All-Star has repeatedly cited family considerations when weighing career moves, and the Los Angeles area has become his home base on and off the court.
Los Angeles faces a pivotal offseason as it tries to construct a deeper roster around James, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves after injuries and other shortcomings undermined a promising playoff run.
Although the Lakers remain the presumed leaders, James has also been linked in speculation to the Cavaliers, Warriors, Knicks and Clippers as he approaches unrestricted free agency.
Source: Hoops Wire
