Amid a flurry of rumors regarding LeBron James‘ future with the Los Angeles Lakers, his longtime agent and close confidant, Rich Paul, has responded to claims he is seeking a trade as he insists the four-time NBA champion hasn’t asked to leave.
The speculation intensified in recent weeks following the team’s limited activity during the offseason and James‘ decision to opt into the final year of his contract, sparking widespread conspiracy theories the 40-year-old could be exit-bound.
The theory is that the all-time great may be looking to leave the franchise due to its apparent focus on long-term roster development but Paul has categorically denied any formal or informal trade requests.
“Rich Paul told me that they never asked for one (extension),” Dave McMenamin said. “Paul also made it clear to me that LeBron has not asked for a trade.
“And Paul hasn’t even discussed the possibility of wanting a trade in the future with the Lakers. Paul did tell me that four teams contacted him with interest in trading for LeBron. So now we wait.”
This clarification comes amid continued media attention around James, who is entering his 23rd NBA season as the Lakers, who have yet to significantly upgrade their roster, have reportedly positioned themselves for future moves.
However, their lack of immediate reinforcements has raised questions about their commitment to contending during the final stretch of James‘ career, who likely won’t be around for a rebuild phase.
Why could LeBron James leave the Los Angeles Lakers?
While Paul‘s statement seems intended to put speculation to rest, it has not entirely quelled league-wide interest, and, according to McMenamin, four teams have reached out to express interest in potentially acquiring James.
It’s worth noting that any trade involving LeBron would require his consent, due to the no-trade clause in his contract and this condition effectively gives him control over his destination, or whether he moves at all.
The broader context also sheds light on James‘ current priorities. After picking up his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-2026 season, Paul publicly stated that his client “wants to compete for a championship.”
Speculation reached a peak during the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, where LeBron was in attendance to support his son, Bronny, who also plays for the Lakers after being drafted in 2024.
Upon being approached by McMenamin before the game between the Lakers and the New Orleans Pelicans, James declined to comment on his status. This could simply be out of respect for LA, but it did little to calm exit fears and rumors.
“Now, I asked LeBron just before tip-off if he’d like to join the broadcast to discuss everything,” McMenamin said. “And he told me, quote, ‘I ain’t got nothing to talk about, guys.'”
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