With his 23rd NBA season about to begin, Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James is already the subject of speculation about where he will be two years from now. ESPN’s Tim Bontemps surveyed 20 league coaches, scouts and front-office executives on James’ likely whereabouts when the 2026-27 campaign tips off, and the answers produced no clear consensus.
Survey results
Los Angeles Lakers: 7 votes
Retired: 5 votes
Cleveland Cavaliers: 4 votes
Golden State Warriors: 2 votes
Dallas Mavericks: 1 vote
Miami Heat: 1 vote
Although the Lakers received the most individual votes, a majority of respondents collectively chose alternatives—either another franchise or retirement. “If I was taking the Lakers or the field, I’d take the field,” one Eastern Conference scout told Bontemps, adding that Los Angeles nonetheless remains “the one with a clear path to pay him.”
Five participants believe James will decide to walk away from the game once his current contract expires. “It just feels like it’s where it’s going to end,” a Western Conference scout said.
James, who turns 40 during the 2024-25 season, is entering his sixth year with the Lakers and has publicly stated his desire to continue playing as long as he feels competitive.
Source: Hoops Wire
