Lakers May Replace LeBron James With $176 Million Star

The Los Angeles Lakers may go through a major reshaping this summer. LeBron James’ decision on his player option may change the landscape in LA, meaning the Lakers should be prepared for every scenario. If LeBron goes somewhere else, the Lakers can replace him with another top star.

LeBron’s agent, Rich Paul, made surprising comments on his free agency, leaving the door open for pretty much every option.

Chris Herring from ESPN discussed LeBron’s willingness to opt out of his deal and join the Philadelphia 76ers. This move would open the door from star guard Paul George.

Lakers to replace LeBron with a star player

Analysts view the Sixers as a potential destination for LeBron. Several NBA analysts believe that the franchise can also draft Bronny and get him to play with his popular father.

LeBron has always talked about playing with with his oldest son and this scenario makes a lot of sense now.

“If the Lakers lose James, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them move extremely quickly to hold things together,” Herring wrote in a May 28, 2024 story titled, “NBA free agency 2024: 10 blockbuster trades, deals that need to happen this offseason.” “The clearest way to do so would be maxing out George, who, even at 34, still stands out as one of the NBA’s best two-way players. At three deflections per game on defense, he ranked among the league’s top 10 in that regard, while also logging a career-best mark from three-point range at 41.3% on nearly eight tries per game.

“It’s not clear that the Clippers — who agreed to a slightly less than max extension of three years with Leonard — want to max out George,” Herring added. “The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that the Clippers were reluctant to go that far, and have so far offered him less than that. (Also of note: Harden is also a free agent this summer.) All of which might present an opening for the Lakers if they’re willing to spend.”