Is LeBron James Leaving the Lakers? Draymond Green Speaks Out

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - Draymond Green (#23) of the Golden State Warriors defends against LeBron James (#23) of the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half of a game at Crypto.com Arena on March 16, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo : Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)

Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green has weighed in on LeBron James's widely discussed future with the Los Angeles Lakers amid speculations about his next move. 

Given James' player option to stay put for one more year or explore free agency, Green gave his opinion.

Green shared his thoughts on the matter during an episode of his podcast, "The Draymond Green Show." He discussed the Lakers' uncertain offseason and the significant choices they'll have to make should James opt to depart.

Read more: LeBron James Stays Silent on Lakers Future as Team Is Willing to Do Everything to Keep Him, Including Huge Draft Move 

"Some people think it's a foregone conclusion that Bron is going back to LA. I don't know that. If there was something that came along that was interesting, I think he'd look at it. But ultimately, I don't quite see him leaving LA," the 34-year-old stated.

The NBA's all-time leading scorer could exercise his player option for the 2024-25 season, valued at $51.4 million.

Alternatively, he could sign the maximum deal that the Lakers are eligible and willing to offer, a three-year contract totaling $164 million.

Longtime LeBron James reporter says he will be a free agent

ESPN reporter Brian Windhorst, who has closely followed James since high school at St. Vincent-St. Mary in Akron, Ohio, stated that the 39-year-old will enter free agency.

"I think LeBron intends to opt out of his contract and become a free agent for the first time since 2018," the 46-year-old said.

However, this doesn't necessarily imply an automatic departure from the Lakers. Instead, James is expected to assess the team's upcoming moves before making a final decision.

Related Article: Lakers Guard D'Angelo Russell Discusses Leverage He Has for Offseason Despite Difficult Series vs Nuggets 

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