Lakers

NBA Insiders Believes LeBron James Will Decline Option, Seek No-Trade Clause

Despite talking about retirement and his future, NBA insiders believe LeBron James isn’t done yet and is looking to have a farewell tour.

One NBA insider, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, said James is not only going to opt out to sign a new deal but is going to seek a no-trade. This is a different status a player can have, with not many players having a no-trade clause.

The no-trade clause is smart, as it would allow LeBron to make sure he can finish his career where he wants to finish at; it’s the better alternative than him signing a contract and immediately being traded.

Even though he is most likely declining his $51.4 option, it doesn’t mean his time in Los Angeles is over.

“I think LeBron’s gonna opt out no matter what,” Brian Windhorst said. “And the reason I think he’s gonna opt out no matter what is even if he just signs back for one year, the only functional way for LeBron to get a no-trade clause is to sign a new contract. If he extends the contract he’s in or picks up that option, extends onto it, he can’t get a no-trade clause. And I think for a number of different reasons, LeBron would like, ask for and probably be granted a no-trade clause.”

While unknown whether or not he will continue his partnership with the Lakers, this off-season will be a very telling one (with many dominoes falling) for “The King” LeBron James.