Former Laker Makes Bold Claim on LeBron James Trade Rumors

With the 2024-25 NBA season being a mixed bag so far, it isn't surprising that the Los Angeles Lakers have found themselves as the center of trade rumors — including those regarding LeBron James.

While trading the four-time NBA MVP seemed unfathomable before the season began, trade talks have picked up now that the Lakers are struggling to hold onto a playoff spot with a 15-12 record through 27 games. No one would be too upset with James if he wanted to end the season on a contender rather than missing the playoffs — especially if his career is nearing the end.

Whether or not the 39-year-old superstar winds up being traded before the Feb. 6 deadline, one former NBA great is confident that "The King" will control his destiny.

Lakers News: Carmelo Anthony Comments on LeBron James Trade Rumors

On Thursday's episode of the "7PM in Brooklyn" podcast, ex-Laker Carmelo Anthony was asked by co-host Kazeem Famuyide about the potential of James being traded from Los Angeles this season.

"LeBron makes the trades so if he wants to get traded, he'll get traded," Anthony claimed, implying that the Lakers superstar has a final say regarding the organization's trades.

While not every superstar holds that much power, James is in a category of his own — highlighted by his unofficial nickname, "LeGM." The generational phenom is the Lakers' main attraction and it wouldn't be surprising to learn that his influence over the team's decision-making and roster choices is bigger than most assume.

Even though the Lakers would likely give in to any of James' potential trade demands, Anthony and former ESPN journalist Bomani Jones agree that a deal is unlikely.

"I can't see (James) wanting to get traded," Jones said.

"I think that window closed shut," Anthony replied. "There was a point in time, maybe last year... There was a thought like, 'Damn (a trade) could be a possibility.'"

The closest James was to being traded last season was when the Golden State Warriors allegedly tried to make a deal, according to NBA insider Brian Windhorst. Although a deal never materialized and the Warriors could head down that path again, the 20-time All-Star's no-trade clause could block any more attempts if he wants to finish his career in L.A. where his family has lived for the last six-plus years.

The former 2003 first-overall picked signed a two-year, $104 million contract to remain with the Lakers back in July and holds a $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 campaign.

Whether he stays or goes, LeBron will have the final say in how the remainder of the season (and his career) plays out. The Akron, OH native's play has been up and down this season as he averages 22.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 9.0 assists while shooting 48.6% from the field and 36.2% from deep through 25 games this season.

If James doesn't plan on leaving, the Lakers have some work to do if they want to be viewed as a legitimate championship threat. After all, their current NBA Finals odds sit at an unfavorable +4100, which ranks 14th-best on FanDuel Sportsbook.

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