The idea of the Los Angeles Lakers trading LeBron James continues to be extremely far-fetched. Why James would force his way out of playing with a generational talent on a prestige franchise is a mystery. Yes, the Lakers haven't done a good enough job building around Luka as of yet, but the superstar's contract prevents him from finding a superior situation. Still, this doesn't stop rivals from reaching out and hoping to strike a deal. According to a recent report by NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Golden State Warriors have reached out multiple times over the last 18 months, hoping to land James.
For Los Angeles fans paying attention, this doesn't come as a surprise whatsoever. LeBron has a well-covered friendship with Draymond Green and is coming off an incredible Olympics run a year ago with Steph Curry. Often, James has made it clear he wishes the duo could play together, and it seems Golden State feels the same. However, there is no legitimate reason for Laker fans to be concerned here.
Trading the star is financially difficult, and the Warriors offer no better hopes of contention than Los Angeles. Even if James wanted out, the Lakers hold all the cards with LeBron opting into the final year of his deal. There simply isn't a path for a trade to get done.
Lakers Superstar LeBron James Continues to Garner Trade Speculation
To force a trade, James would have to stoop to behavior that simply doesn't fit the class act the star has always been. It would need to be a repeat of what current Warrior Jimmy Butler accomplished last season to get the Lakers to consider making a move. Add in the fact that you have Bronny James sitting on the bench, and this isn't even a full season with Luka, there is no reason to turn the page.
Yes, even from a Lakers' perspective, it is easy to see how incredible the fit of James and Curry might be together. It is a move that would break the NBA news cycle and give ESPN something to endlessly discuss. However, as much as Warriors fans might wish for it to happen, the Lakers aren't going to trade James.
There is zero motivation to make the move, and unless LeBron is willing to act out of character, the Lakers hold all the cards. While it is a noteworthy report, Los Angeles fans have no reason to be concerned about any changes happening this season.