If LeBron James decides to leave the Los Angeles Lakers after this season, the San Antonio Spurs are the clear favorites to sign him, according to bookmakers. Though LeBron is anticipated to return for his 22nd season, Brian Windhorst has raised the possibility that he may look into other options the following season, raising doubts about his future with the Lakers.
LeBron has a $51.4 million player option for the next campaign. The Lakers’ dismal play, which has led to them finishing as the 10th-best team in the West with a 21-21 record, has stoked rumors that LeBron may be leaving. Because they may have three first-round picks in the 2024 NBA Draft, the Spurs have unexpectedly become contenders in this scenario.
With a 7-33 record right now, the Spurs are tied for the second-worst record in the league. The Spurs are positioned to be draft contenders for the upcoming season thanks to their own pick, the Charlotte Hornets’ pick (top-14 protected), and the Toronto Raptors’ pick (top-6 protected). The possibility of obtaining these selections makes them a more desirable destination for LeBron James.
The Spurs may also be drawn to Bronny James, LeBron’s son, if they have the chance to select him in the upcoming NBA draft. LeBron’s relationship with the late great Spurs coach Gregg Popovich adds even more allure. In the event that this happens, the Spurs may be able to claim LeBron James, one of the greatest players of all time, as a member of their roster for the next campaign.
A nightmare matchup if LeBron James and Victor Wembanyama play together.
On the basketball court, LeBron James and Victor Wembanyama together could be a nightmare matchup for rivals. Wembanyama, the number one pick in 2023, is a powerful 7-foot-4 player who will have the chance to pick up important skills from the seasoned LeBron James.