The Lakers Could Lose LeBron James to the Warriors: Report

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PHOENIX, ARIZONA – FEBRUARY 26: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half of the NBA game at Mortgage Matchup Center on February 26, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Lakers 113-110. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

The Los Angeles Lakers only have this year left with LeBron James for certain. James has a player option for next season. He could decide to opt out and head to another team in pursuit of a title. That is why the urgency is so high this year.

Right now, the Lakers sit in a tie for fourth in the Western Conference standings. Even so, they are just two games ahead of the seventh spot, which is a play-in spot. LA is trying everything it can to avoid that, knowing that James could leave next year.

James has been rumored to want to head back to Cleveland, but there is also a chance he heads to the Golden State Warriors to team up with Steph Curry.

GettyLos Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James shoots a lay-up. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)

The Lakers Could Watch LeBron James Head to the Warriors

While appearing on the Zach Lowe Show, Warriors beat reporter Nick Fridell talked about the possibility of that happening.

“There are only so many teams at this point that can take on LeBron and the star wattage that he carries. The Warriors have done it before. They know what it’s like to live under that microscope…they would be fascinating to watch.”

Fridell explained that James’ improved relationship with Curry could be a motivating factor.

“We know LeBron and Draymond’s relationship is well-established. LeBron and Steph’s relationship has gone through a lot of peaks and valleys through the years. I remember talking to Steph at the beginning of the year, and he said, ‘Hey, we are going to do a lot of business together in the future. That’s something that we’ve talked about.’ And I think a relationship that started out a little icy, especially as Steph rose to his own prominence…I think has thawed.”

GettyLos Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James looks to pass the ball. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Los Angeles Likely Won’t Keep LeBron James Next Season

Even if James doesn’t end up heading to Golden State, it’s unlikely that he will return to LA. The Lakers have played better without James on the court when Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves share the floor. NBA analysts have started talking about it recently.

Wherever James ends up next season, he will have to take a pay cut from what he is used to making if he wants to join a contender. He won’t be able to sign a max-level contract. At his age, even though he’s still a great player, he isn’t worth that kind of value.

The Lakers will have cap space in the summer to use on pending free agents. They will likely pursue Giannis Antetokounmpo in a trade after the Bucks decided not to deal him at the deadline. Several teams will be pursuing him when the summer rolls around.

LA has already started building the team around Doncic for the future. At his age, James doesn’t fit that style of play or the vision for the future.

Ryan Stano Ryan Stano covers the NBA for Heavy.com. He has been covering sports since 2017, covering the NFL, College Football, College Basketball, and the NBA. His work has been featured on Yahoo, Bleacher Report, FanSided, and Sports Illustrated. More about Ryan Stano