Bombshell reports detail 4 ways the Lakers iced out LeBron James through microaggression

Throughout this NBA offseason, one of the biggest underlying stories has been LeBron James and the LA Lakers. As the two sides continue an apparent standoff, one insider detailed a series of events that led to the relationship going sour.

In a move that shocked many, LeBron decided to opt in to his player option for next season. Shortly after, his agent, Rich Paul, made some choice comments about wanting to compete for a championship. This resulted in endless speculation of LA possibly trading the 21-time All-Star.

While breaking down LeBron James' situation, NBA insiders Ramona Shelburne and Brian Windhorst cited multiple factors that led to things being how they are now. The first was the Luka Doncic trade, mainly because James was not informed that the franchise was moving on from his longtime running mate, Anthony Davis.

Other incidents included the failed trade for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams, and James not knowing that Jeanie Buss was selling the iconic franchise. The final piece noted was that the Lakers didn't offer LeBron an extension this offseason, resulting in him playing on an expiring deal.

As of now, it remains unclear if LA will make the superstar forward available via trade.

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Golden State Warriors among teams interested in putting an offer in for LeBron James

In light of LeBron James accepting his player option, teams around the league tried to read the writing on the wall. With him being on an expiring contract now, some have once again tossed around the idea of trading for the star forward.

This is not the first time that LeBron's name has popped up in rumors, as the Golden State Warriors reportedly inquired about him in the past. As his relationship with the Lakers reportedly continues to trend in the wrong direction, they are a franchise contemplating re-opening discussions with LA.

"One Eastern Conference executive was convinced James wanted out of LA," Shelburne and Windhorst wrote.

"A handful of teams -- including the Golden State Warriors, who tried to trade for James in 2023-24 -- considered again whether to make an offer, sources said. One Western Conference executive chalked it up to an elaborate pout because the Lakers hadn't offered James a new contract extension."

With the acquisition of Jimmy Butler last year, the Warriors have found a new running mate to pair with Steph Curry. However, seeing that they're two of the greatest players ever, Golden State would likely consider this all-time pairing if the Lakers began fielding trade calls.