For the third time in four seasons, LeBron James has to plan his vacation earlier than usual. A finding that could lead him to consider rethinking his future there, as well as other reasons for questioning his stay in Los Angeles.
In 2018, when he seemed to have made the most of his second stint in Cleveland, marriage seemed almost obvious. Looking for one last big challenge in her career, LeBron James then joined a Lakers team that was just waiting for a superstar of his caliber to rediscover his past glory. Glory that he has indeed restored the time of a confined summer, but which has found itself again undermined since.
LeBron James, the hour of the balance sheet that hurts the Lakers
After being eliminated in the first round of the playoffs last year, LBJ and his teammates have not even managed to qualify for the postseason this season. This second successive failure inevitably pushes journalists to question his state of mind approaching a decisive off-season for him. In the columns of The AthleticBill Oram, for example, begins his reflection with a simple observation, but oh so spicy for the King.
As James prepares for his third premature offseason in four seasons with the Lakers, it seems fair to wonder if his individual excellence will be enough for him, even if the Lakers remain mediocre.
In other words, will he be satisfied with running behind individual records such as that of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, without being able to fight for a 5th title?
Because yes, given the extremely complicated financial situation in which the Angelinos find themselves, there is no guarantee that LeBron and his troops will come back stronger next year.
As his career continues, James is going to need more help. And the Lakers are not really in a good position to offer it to him.
The Russell Westbrook case obviously poses a problem, but not only. The health concerns of Bron and Anthony Davis could also become too important for LA to regain its luster.
Once this disturbing inventory has been made, doubts can reasonably be cast on LeBron’s interest in continuing his journey in the City of Angels. Before performing a final dance alongside his son, Bronny, within two years, the Chosen One could look to join a team capable of making the most of his last months of dominance. In this case, he would only be honoring the line of conduct he has always displayed!
Since his arrival in 2018, James and the Lakers have worked together flawlessly, but as the superstar ages, will what’s best for the Lakers also be what’s best for James? Throughout his career, James has always had a clear road to the title. And when he felt that was no longer the case in a team, he walked away.
Let the Lakers Nation be reassured, the most likely scenario remains to see LeBron James continue his journey in Los Angeles, where he would lead a life that suits him perfectly. However, the sporting aspect could eventually change the situation sooner or later.
