Does LeBron James have a no-trade clause? Exploring Lakers star's power amid trade rumors
The Feb. 8 NBA trade deadline is fast approaching and among the names that are coming out in the rumors is LeBron James. Some may think that it is absurd for the LA Lakers to trade one of the most influential figures in the league, but the rumor of him going to another team this season has gained traction.
Although the rumor might be deemed far-fetched, there exists a slim possibility that it could materialize. Examining the contract inked by LeBron James in August 2022, it's noteworthy that the four-time NBA champion did not incorporate a trade clause. This means that if the Los Angeles Lakers do decide to trade the 20-time NBA All-Star, he seemingly cannot do anything about it.
But for a scenario like this to happen, it would mean that both parties should have decided together that a trade would take place, just for courtesy to one another. James is still one of the most polarizing figures in the league while the LA Lakers hold one of the biggest fanbases in the world.
James' agency, Klutch Sports, would undoubtedly be heavily involved with this and would do some power broking if necessary, just as they did in getting LeBron to the Lakers and joining up with Anthony Davis.
More so, the power in this deal is with the Los Angeles Lakers if they decide to move in another direction without LeBron James in the picture.
Which NBA teams can exploit LeBron James' lack of a 'no-trade clause'?
If the LA Lakers decide to move on from LeBron James, they would probably ask the four-time NBA MVP which teams he would prefer to go to, as this move will likely be the last before he decides to end his illustrious career.
A team that may be interested is the Cleveland Cavaliers, who may look to capitalize on moving Donovan Mitchell and getting something in return. This would be a sentimental pick for James to do, as he may be inclined to end his career where it all started.
Another team that could try to exploit this situation is the New York Knicks. From the biggest market team in the West to the East, the Knicks have been salivating to get an NBA superstar to arrive in the area and turn things around.
The above teams may look to trade for James but in return, they may give up a star player like Jalen Brunson or Donovan Mitchell, along with a few expiring contracts and picks.
For now, these scenarios are likely slim in reality, and it would take a lot to divorce LeBron James from the LA Lakers.