The Los Angeles Lakers stood pat at the trade deadline, a decision that appears to be unpopular with LeBron James. Amid new rumors that James might not finish his career in L.A., the superstar could be looking to force the organization to make a significant deal this summer.

James isn’t leaving the Lakers anytime soon, considering he’s signed through the 2022-2023 season. Los Angeles’ current roster doesn’t appear capable of winning a championship. James seemingly wants the Lakers to make moves that could increase their chances of winning another title now, no matter what it might cost the organization in the future.

Comments about potentially returning to Cleveland or eventually playing for whatever team acquires his son Bronny could serve as a warning that James is prepared to play elsewhere when his contract is up. The Lakers can offer James a contract extension in August. James is expected to have some demands before committing to the franchise further, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.

That could mean trading their first-round draft picks in 2027 and 2029 in order to improve the roster in the short term.

Los Angeles’ trade for Russell Westbrook last summer backfired, leaving the team without depth or many future assets. The Lakers reportedly passed on the chance to trade Westbrook and their 2027 first-round pick at the deadline, putting the onus on Westbrook, James and Anthony Davis to turn this season around.

With a 27-31 record as the West’s No. 9 seed at the All-Star break, this Lakers season might be a lost cause. Davis is expected to miss at least a month with a foot injury.

James is still playing at an MVP level when healthy. The 37-year-old is averaging 29.1 points, 7.9 rebounds and 6.5 assists in 41 games. James is shooting 52.2% from the field and averaging 3.2 turnovers per game, his lowest mark in nine years.

Surrounding James with an improved roster won’t be easy. Westbrook is Los Angeles’ most obvious trade candidate, but teams won’t be racing to acquire the point guard and his $47 million salary for next season. Westbrook’s 18.3 points per game are his fewest in over a decade.

James is only 16 months removed from winning his fourth NBA Finals MVP award and leading the Lakers to an NBA championship.

LeBron James
LeBron James #6 of Los Angeles Lakers reacts during action against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on January 25, 2022 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. Michelle Farsi/Getty Images
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