Brian Windhorst Hints at LeBron James' Uncertain Lakers Future in 2024

As we have grown accustomed to over the last 21 years, what team LeBron James will play for next will be a huge storyline going forward. As the 39-year-old icon is contemplating his NBA future, recent reporting suggests that we might be in for a surprise.

ESPN insider Brian Windhorst has long been one of the closest media members to LeBron James and his circle. He arguably has the most accurate information when it comes to the future Hall-of-Famer. That is why what he said in the newest episode of his podcast should raise plenty of eyebrows around the league.

In the Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective's latest episode, the veteran journalist said he expects James to play next season, but he doesn't know "if it's going to be for the Lakers."

Lakers Rumors: LeBron James Might Not Be Back Next Season

This is perhaps not too surprising as LeBron has been keeping his options open in the offseason as he prefers short-term deals. He has a player option for $51.4 million for the 2024-25 season. He could opt-in for one more year with Los Angeles, ask for a trade, sign a contract extension, or simply opt out and consider his options on the market.

If LeBron James is hitting free agency, rest assured, every single one of 30 NBA teams will try everything in their power to sign him.

He has indicated his desire to play on the same team with his son Bronny before he retires. If Bronny were to declare for the 2024 NBA Draft, that could be a huge factor in where LeBron ends up.

However, James has given no signs that he wants to be anywhere but Los Angeles. He plays with another future Hall-of-Famer Anthony Davis and they just made the Conference Finals last season. For all intents and purposes, he seems satisfied with his situation.

On the other hand, maybe James doesn't see this current team as a championship contender. The Lakers are currently 20-21 and tenth in the Western Conference. If James doesn't see a path to contention with the current roster, would he ask out to try to go to a team with a better chance of winning a title?

Maybe, but it doesn't seem very likely. James always believes in his ability to turn things around like they did last season. But perhaps Windhorst knows something we don't. Unfortunately, we have to wait until the summer to find that out.

The Lakers currently have the ninth-best odds to win the 2024 NBA championship at +2900, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.