LeBron James is in the final year of his $52.6 million deal. If the Lakers don’t trade him now, they risk losing him for nothing. Reports in recent weeks have fueled speculation that he may not be with the Lakers next season, and retirement at the conclusion of the 2025–26 campaign remains an open possibility, so act now is the message.

Playing in his first game since Jan. 18, Bronny James appreciated the love shown in Cleveland

LeBron James' future was at the forefront of Cavaliers vs. Lakers in Cleveland. "You could see that being back here is very important to him."