Report: LeBron James open to leaving Lakers in 1 particular scenario

LeBron James can become a free agent in the summer of 2023, and it may be time to start up the circus music again.

ESPN’s Brian Windhorst told fellow NBA writer Chris Sheridan this week that James could potentially leave the Los Angeles Lakers under one particular set of circumstances.

“LeBron likes L.A., he likes raising his family in L.A., and his post-career businesses are in L.A.,” Windhorst was quoted as saying. “But he’s made it very clear that he wants to play with his son. If that situation is available outside L.A., he’ll pursue it.”

James’ son, 17-year-old Bronny, is currently a junior at Sierra Canyon High School. Bronny is a five-star recruit and is the No. 34 ranked player in the 2023 class, according to 247Sports. He will not be NBA Draft-eligible until 2024 however, assuming that the “one-and-done” rule remains in effect.

That said, the elder James has played on one-year contracts many times before, so he could easily wait out Bronny’s “one-and-done” year after his current contract with the Lakers expires. As long as James is there though, the Lakers might not be bad enough to have a chance at drafting Bronny. As such, James sounds open to teaming up with his son outside of Los Angeles.

We have also heard other recent rumors that James might leave the Lakers. A chance to join forces with Bronny elsewhere might just be the scenario that does it.

Photo: Jan 21, 2022; Orlando, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) against the Orlando Magic during the first quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports