The Los Angeles Lakers are dealing with mounting questions as they push to return to championship contention. The team started the season strong, but a string of devastating losses recently has put them in a tough spot.
However, the pressure on the Lakers isn’t just about this season, but also about the years ahead. LeBron James turns 40 this month, and his retirement feels closer than ever. Right now, he’s under a two-year deal with a player option for the 2025-26 season, but you can’t help wondering if the clock is ticking louder than usual.
If LeBron retires, Anthony Davis is expected to take over as the Lakers’ cornerstone. However, the ripple effect of LeBron’s exit could be substantial. According to Lakers insider Jovan Buha, it wouldn’t surprise him if Davis decided to ask out of Los Angeles in that scenario.
Per Bleacher Report:
“…I think that the ideal scenario is replacing LeBron with a younger star at some point, obviously not trading him for a younger star, but once LeBron retires acquiring that other star and then AD kind of probably taking a step back, letting that star, if it’s the right level or a right caliber of star, letting that person shine and and sort of lead the franchise.
But I wouldn’t say it’s inconceivable that he asked out, but I think he’s been pretty happy in LA and I think he’s aware of LeBron’s plans. I also think if he wants out, I think the Lakers should just honor that because it’s like at that point, if LeBron retires maybe it is best to rebuild and just keep your picks and then maybe at that point, they have kept their picks and just kind of punted on this season and next season. But I think if I had to lean one way, I’d probably lean toward AD staying, but I would not be surprised if he asked out.”
