Key Takeaways:
– The Ringer’s Bill Simmons proposes an NBA trade scenario where the Lakers could swap LeBron James for the Clippers’ Paul George.
– Allowing the final year of their deals to play out would be necessary for the trade to work logistically.
– The Lakers are reportedly open to retaining James for as long as he wants to play.
– The Lakers would potentially offer James a maximum three-year, $164 million extension, including an option to draft his son.
An improbable NBA trade scenario has been suggested by Bill Simmons of The Ringer, involving two major Los Angeles teams – the Lakers and the Clippers. The proposed deal involves an exchange of superstars, with the Lakers trading LeBron James for the Clippers’ guard, Paul George.
The Proposed Trade Scenario
Simmons floated this hypothetical NBA trade scenario in a recent episode of his self-titled podcast, highlighting that getting such a scenario off the ground could be difficult due to several reasons.
“The issue isn’t the appeal of the trade, but its feasibility,” Simmons stressed, emphasizing that the rivalry between the Lakers and the Clippers, coupled with James’ and George’s free-agent options, makes the trade unlikely in reality.
The conditions to make this trade possible involve both players allowing their current contracts to run their course instead of using their options to become free agents. A less practical alternative could be a double sign-and-trade if both were free agents.
Los Angeles Lakers’ Stance
From the Lakers’ perspective, this trade might not present a compelling offer. Swapping LeBron James, arguably one of the greatest players of all time, for Paul George, perhaps does not reflect a long-term strategic move.
More importantly, the Lakers have shown willingness to keep James for as long as he desires to continue playing. According to The Athletic, the Lakers are prepared to be flexible with the kind of deal that James wants next.
LeBron’s Potential Return
With the Lakers failing to qualify for the playoffs for the second consecutive year, there have been questions regarding James’s future with the team. When asked about his potential last game with the Lakers, LeBron James refused to answer, sparking further speculation about his future.
However, it appears that the Lakers are ready to offer James a deal he can’t refuse, which could include a maximum three-year, $164 million extension. Additionally, the team’s willingness to draft James’ son Bronny could provide another strong incentive for LeBron to stay.
Paul George’s Prospects
Meanwhile, Paul George, a Southern California native, has long been suggested as a perfect fit for the Lakers. With a $48.7 million salary lined up for 2024-25 if he plays the final season of his four-year, $176.2 million contract, George could potentially be part of a big team shift in the upcoming season.
In conclusion, while this NBA trade scenario sounding exciting to some basketball enthusiasts, the reality of it happening seems slim considering the players, contracts, and team strategies involved. Ultimately, the future of both LeBron James and Paul George will be watched closely as the off-season progresses.