Lakers want LeBron James "gone" as bombshell report claims unthinkable is now a real possibility

Lakers Timberwolves NBA Playoffs round 1 game 5.. - Source: Getty
Lakers Timberwolves NBA Playoffs round 1 game 5.. - Source: Getty

Just a few days ago, LeBron James' return to the LA Lakers appeared to be a safe bet as he reportedly exercised his player option for the 2025-26 season. But now, Arizona-based radio host John Gambadoro has cast doubt over that possibility.

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On Wednesday, the veteran broadcaster claimed that the Lakers are looking to part ways with the four-time NBA champion. According to Gambadoro, the feeling is said to be mutual.

"I was told this after the playoffs by someone close to LeBron- Said 'LeBron wants out of LA and they want him gone' 'Watch Game 1, how disinterested LeBron was' Now MOST people on here know that my sources are not the 6 degrees of Kevin Bacon," Gambadoro tweeted.
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Gambadoro's tweet came as part of a thread where he reacted to NBA insider Brian Windhorst floating the same possibility on national TV — that James could suit up for another team next season.

"My conversations over the last three days have crystallized that the Lakers are essentially viewing LeBron as an expiring contract. ... And what happens to expiring contracts in the NBA? They're viewed as trade pieces," Windhorst said Tuesday on ESPN's "First Take."
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Although Windhorst brought up the no-trade clause in James' contract, it's possible that LBJ could sign off on a deal that brings him closer to title contention. The option of a contract buyout is also on the table for James and his current team.

If Gambadoro and Windhorst's sources are spot-on, a new chapter in James' illustrious career could unfold next season. Meanwhile, the Lakers would be able to proceed with their plans of building around their new franchise player, Luka Doncic.

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Viral tweet shows LeBron James wearing a "Welcome Home" hat in northeast Ohio

As the NBA community watches the LeBron James situation with great interest, "The King" himself amplified the buzz with a simple accessory choice.

On Wednesday, the X account of ESPN Cleveland posted an image from James' Instagram account. In the image, James, who was golfing in northeast Ohio at the time, wore a hat that says "Welcome Home."

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The tweet has fueled speculation of James heading to the Cavaliers for the third time in his career. The fact that the photo was taken in northeast Ohio, where Cleveland is situated, has made the talking point even more interesting.

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Edited by Simoun Victor Redoblado
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