Amid a disappointing 2021-22 NBA season for the Los Angeles Lakers, there has occasionally been speculation about what the future holds for LeBron James.
James, who is averaging 29.8 points, 8.2 rebounds and 6.2 assists on the season, is still playing elite basketball at age 37. After the Russell Westbrook trade, the Lakers have a depleted supporting cast and the prospects of a title claim seem non-existent.
It remains unlikely that James will leave the Lakers given his desire to be in Los Angeles. If he were to change his stance on staying with the franchise long-term, could he move elsewhere to land with a team that has a better chance of competing?
“That’s the candor I see myself being with,” James told reporters. “…I’m here, I’m here, I keep telling you guys…I literally live in the moment. Yes, I live in the moment and see myself being with purple and gold as long as I can play. But I also have a goal that if it’s possible, I don’t even know if it’s possible, but if I can play with my son, I would love to do it.
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When considering potential options, Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix and Howard Beck on “The NBA Crossover Show” identified the Philadelphia 76ers as an intriguing potential option. With the team keeping Tyrese Maxey and Matisse Thybulle after the James Harden, perhaps they could put together a solid trading package.
“The craziest part of it all, could you send him to the Sixers to play with Harden and Embiid?” Beck reflected during an episode of “The Crossover NBA Show,” “I know there are too many guys out there who are going to want the ball in their hands. We’re already going through that with the Lakers team.
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“But [Sixers GM Daryl Morey] absolutely would. Could you get [Tyrese] Max and [Matisse] Did Thybulle get out of it? And then they offload Tobias Harris and give Daryl more flexibility on his payroll? I do not know. Again, my friends, I’m just spitting, I’m not making serious business offers here. Do not panic.
The Philadelphia 76ers could have Tobias Harris’ contract to use as a key part of the salary. However, his contract signed him until 2024 could make it difficult for the Los Angeles Lakers to accept a deal.
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