The LA Lakers are reportedly preparing for life after LeBron James, who signed a two-year contract with a player option for the 2025-26 season this offseason.
A well-known NBA personality and podcaster named a potential replacement for James once he decides to retire or possibly leave the Lakers.
On an episode of “The Mismatch” on The Ringer released on Friday, Kevin O’Connor reported that the Lakers are looking at Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks as heir to “The King” in Hollywood.
Doncic is eligible to sign a supermax extension with the Mavericks next summer, but could also become a free agent after the 2025-26 season.
“I’ve reported on this podcast and on The Ringer how they have their sights set for Luka in the future. We’ll see if that works out.
Dallas just made a Finals. Dallas is looking better than ever with their supporting cast. That may not work out.
“But the Lakers, by not trading their future picks, clearly they’re still thinking long-term at this point. They’re not going all in like you might expect many teams to do with LeBron James,” O’Connor said. [0:50 onwards]
The LA Lakers have at least one more year of LeBron James, two if he opts into his contract for the 2025-26 season. James remains one of the best players in the world despite being the oldest in the league. He will be turning 40 years old in December but continues to take care of his health and body.
On the other hand, the Dallas Mavericks are coming off an NBA Finals appearance led by Luka Doncic. They brought in Klay Thompson as reinforcements and will try to make it again and win the NBA championship this time around.
ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reported earlier this year that there were fears in Dallas about Doncic potentially requesting a trade this summer if they did not show signs of improvement. However, the NBA Finals run proved that the Mavericks are closer to a championship than losing their Slovenian superstar.
LeBron James entering his 22nd season in the NBA
LeBron James will be entering the 22nd season of his NBA career this October, tying Vince Carter’s record for most in league history. As mentioned above, James is set to turn 40 in December but remains one of the best players in the world.
Some are doubting James’ capability to lead the LA Lakers to another championship after the franchise’s front office failed to improve their roster. The Lakers did hire a new coach in JJ Redick, but he’s a rookie coach, which could pose a lot of problems early on.
Nevertheless, it will be a historic season for James and his legacy since he’ll be able to play with his son Bronny. Once they share the court, LeBron and Bronny will become the first father-son duo to play in an NBA game at the same time in history.
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Source: USA Today
