LeBron James wasn’t present at Luka Doncic’s contract extension news conference.
That doesn’t necessarily mean anything, and he’s more than entitled to some time off the clock just like everybody else. However, given all that has been said about his future with the Los Angeles Lakers, it didn’t take long before people speculated whether there was something else going on.
The Athletic’s Dan Woike reports that there’s nothing to it.
“James has not asked for a trade or a contract buyout, team and league sources have said. He’ll turn 41 on Dec. 30,” wrote Woike.
James’ agent and friend, Rich Paul, also made it loud and clear that he hasn’t even talked about potentially leaving the Lakers, and while he still doesn’t know if he’ll re-sign with them or will continue to play beyond this season, that’s a bridge they’ll cross when they get there.
Lakers GM Rob Pelinka also shut down rumors by pointing out that he’s been in constant talks with James and his camp.
“Yeah, so all the interactions we’ve had with LeBron and his camp, Rich (Paul) in particular, have been positive and supportive. So very professional and Rich has been great,” Pelinka said. “The dialogue with him has been open and constant.”
The Lakers are doing the right thing by pivoting towards their younger star. Whether this will be the end of the line for James in Southern California remains to be seen.
