Lakers trade rumors: 3 reasons why LeBron James just might be traded after blockbuster Luka Doncic acquisition

Lakers trade rumors: 3 reasons why LeBron James just might be traded after blockbuster Luka Doncic acquisition (Photo by GETTY)
Lakers trade rumors: 3 reasons why LeBron James just might be traded after blockbuster Luka Doncic acquisition (Photo by GETTY)

Following the blockbuster acquisition of the LA Lakers of Luka Doncic at the weekend, a lot of focus is also being channeled to resident Purple and Gold superstar LeBron James and his future in Los Angeles.

While it is widely believed that he has no intention to waive his no-trade clause during this season in the aftermath of the deal that sent Doncic to the Lakers from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for a package that included Anthony Davis, there is just no guarantee at this point that 'The King' would not be in the move.

Below are three reasons why LeBron James might be traded with the arrival of Doncic.

3 reasons why LeBron James could be shipped out following the Luka Doncic deal

#1. Redundancies in the skills of Doncic and James

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By giving the go-ahead to the Doncic deal, it goes without saying that the Lakers fully believe in the abilities of the 25-year-old superstar to be the team's face not only for the immediate future but for the long haul. Unfortunately, both 'The Don' and LeBron James have similar skill sets, which could pose a problem, prompting management to consider parting ways with its older star.

Both superstars have successfully anchored their games on creating plays for themselves and their teammates but also requires them having to control the ball for much of the time. One should wonder if two players cut on the same cloth playing together would have the same effectivity. Something surely has to give. And if it is James, is he willing to tweak his game at this stage of his career?

#2. Not lacking in interest in LeBron James

At 40 years old, James is no doubt in his final leg. He, however, is still playing at a high level belying the mileage in him, earning a lot of interest from other teams. Given such, provided the Lakers and the four-time NBA champion find a deal to their liking, they may actually go for it.

Among the teams constantly being linked to James is the Golden State Warriors, which will have him joining forces with many-time championship foe and Team USA teammate Steph Curry. Many scenarios have been brought forth in the past for this deal to happen but nothing concrete has come out from them. With the Lakers now having Doncic in their fold, negotiations could be given a different treatment.

Other interesting destinations for LeBron James are his former teams Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat as well as the OKC Thunder, Houston Rockets and Denver Nuggets, who have the pieces the Lakers could use in return in a trade while giving James the opportunity to win another title.

#3. Feeling of betrayal may lead to James and Lakers parting ways

James has not fully spoken about the Doncic trade and it is widely reported that the 21-time NBA All-Star was not consulted about it, leaving some quarters to surmise that he felt betrayed.

Again, no official word yet on how James feels after everything that had happen but if trust issues between the organization and its top star continue to come up moving forward, a separation might have to happen.

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Edited by Mike Murillo
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