Veteran NBA insider Brian Windhorst has provided his insights on why he believes LeBron James will choose to opt out of his current contract with the Lakers. While this might initially raise concerns among Lakers fans, Windhorst’s analysis warrants attention.
According to Windhorst, regardless of the scenario, he anticipates LeBron opting out of his contract. His reasoning revolves around LeBron’s desire to secure a no-trade clause, which he can only obtain by signing a new contract. Windhorst suggests that even if LeBron were to sign a one-year deal, the only practical way to secure this clause is through a fresh contract. This clause, which restricts teams from trading a player without their consent, is relatively rare in the NBA.
Throughout NBA history, only a select few players have had contracts featuring a no-trade clause. Notable names include David Robinson, John Stockton, Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett, Dirk Nowitzki, Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony, Bradley Beal, and LeBron James himself, when he signed with the Cavaliers prior to the 2015/16 season. This clause famously played a role in preventing Lakers icon Kobe Bryant from being traded when he requested a move in 2007.
If LeBron indeed seeks a no-trade clause in his contract, it’s likely because he has confidence that the Lakers will draft his son, Bronny James. Bronny recently declared for the 2024 NBA Draft and entered the NCAA transfer portal to preserve his college eligibility, indicating his intention to pursue a professional basketball career.
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