Given that LeBron James’ player option deadline is four days after the 2024 NBA Draft, it is very likely that he will play alongside his son.
LeBron James, the all-time leading scorer in NBA history, is approaching the conclusion of an incredible career. James wants one dream to come true before he hangs up his shoes. Alongside his older son Bronny James, he wants to play. However, it remains to be seen how many teams will be able to assist James Sr. in realizing his objective.
There are challenges unique to that dream. LeBron James is 39 years old and in his 21st year of professional basketball. James does not benefit from age-riding.
Conversely, Bronny James’s first year at the University of Southern California has been unsatisfactory. What will be the outcome for the teams that wish to house both of James in their building, then?
Even though he is no longer playing at the highest level, James Sr. is the league’s most marketable player. Just those facts alone would entice any organization to sign him. Conversely, Bronny James was seen as a top-10 draft choice this year.
That was before to his cardiac attack and his so-far unsatisfactory play. However, the promise is evident. James Jr. will see value in his play as a reliable three-and-d player.
LeBron James is rumored to be considering declining his forthcoming player option to sign with the team that selects his kid in the NBA. The player option deadline for James Sr. is four days following the 2024 NBA Draft. Thus, the expectation is that he will play alongside his son at any draft location.
Which teams in the league, though, can afford to have James on their roster and give themselves a chance to win a championship? The following five choices are available:
1.Los Angeles Lakers
From his native Akron, Ohio, the King relocated his family and his companies to Los Angeles. He took the long perspective when doing this.
In the Los Angeles region, Bronny James plays for USC, while his younger son Bryce James attends Sierra Canyon. The first choice is with the most legendary team in NBA history since James Sr. wants to retire as a player for the Los Angeles Lakers and because his family lives nearby.
James Sr.’s pay is already owed to the Los Angeles Lakers. They are carrying their second-round draft pick as well. LeBron James’s wish will come true if they use that choice to choose James Jr. More significantly, the Lakers already possess the majority of the components required for a repeat championship run. James Jr., a 3-and-D expert, allows them to concentrate on other things.
The fact that the Lakers are currently ninth in the fiercely competitive Western Conference is also helpful. It is improbable that the team will move up into the playoff spots, even with 16 games remaining. They would therefore be selecting late in the second round. Selecting Bronny James won’t be a disastrous marketing move.
2.Golden State Warriors
The basketball community was a little alarmed by this year’s trade deadline. A combination of LeBron James and Stephen Curry—a friend, hometown native, and persistent rival—might have been too much for any club in the league. James did pull away from discussions about the move.
However, his pals in the Bay Area were making every effort to persuade him to move there as well. From Los Angeles, it takes six hours to get to San Francisco.
The Warrior’s team salary is the main problem that could blow this arrangement. Out of all the teams in the league, they have the most cap hit. Undoubtedly, they would desire to retain Klay Thompson, an upcoming free agent. They would prefer not to give up on their developing children at the same time.
James might sign a veteran minimum contract to join them, but a lot more steps need to be taken before this can happen. However, it is exciting to think about LeBron James and Curry playing together.
3.New York Knicks
It’s possible that the Lakers have a stronger championship history than the Knicks. Playing at the storied Madison Square Garden, however, is a different experience.
LeBron James may definitely sign with the Knicks. They have the most talented young team to challenge for the NBA title. Additionally, they have a second-round draft pick and no large contracts to give up in the event that James, the senior, decides to remain in New York City.
LeBron James will have no trouble assuming the position of the playmaking forward. Off the bench, his son Bronny James will also be a significant asset. All things considered, it’s a match made in heaven. James’s father and son have a good chance of playing together and leading the Knicks to a championship.
4.Miami Heat
Since LeBron James last played for the Miami Heat, two things have not changed. Erik Spoelstra, head coach, and Pat Riley, president of basketball operations.
They would both be thrilled to see James again. In addition, he thinks highly of current Heat players Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, and former colleague Kevin Love. It will be a dream come true to join the team that produced his first two championships. The only caveat is that a few parts might need to be moved.
They may select Bronny James with their second-round draft pick. When James, Butler, and Adebayo play together, opponents will be terrified. Not too far away is another title. More significantly, Father understands what the Heat culture stands for, thus Bronny James’ development will be in good hands.
5.Philadelphia 76ers
The starting lineup for the Philadelphia 76ers is fascinating. The 76ers, led by Tyrese Maxey, the newest All-Star, and league MVP Joel Embiid, are a lock to contend for the championship. But they’ve been waiting a long time for that one guy who can really push them over the brink.
The greatest person to do that is most likely LeBron James. James’ ability to create plays could improve the 76ers’ style of basketball. Indeed, in order for the deal to close, a few things must change. On the other hand, everyone would like to see James, Embiid, and Maxey play together James Jr.
The draft selection and necessary trade elements are in the 76ers’ possession to make the deal. For the senior James, having championship-winning coach Nick Nurse leading the team will be interesting.
Though one can still wait for one of these scenarios to come to pass, it makes one consider the path that the NBA’s public face will ultimately choose. The King, whose retirement is imminent, will act in his own best interests. He is, after all, LeBron James. His choice will have a significant effect on the entire league.
