The exercise in frustration and inconsistency that has been the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2023-24 season has continued unabated, and it has led to some conversations the team’s fans may not want to have.
Trade rumors have swirled around the organization since early in the season. Over the last several weeks, much of that talk has centered on Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray.
But this week, there has been wild speculation the Lakers might even try to trade LeBron James. As a result, various pundits have made trade proposals involving him.
ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith’s proposal was simple: James should ask for a trade to the New York Knicks if he wants to win his fifth NBA championship (h/t The Cold Wire).
.@stephenasmith makes a BIG proposal to LeBron đź‘€
"If LeBron James wants to put himself in position to win a championship, get traded to the New York Knicks." pic.twitter.com/zosIyXg0s0
— First Take (@FirstTake) February 2, 2024
Smith’s reasoning is the red-hot Knicks, who are currently riding a nine-game winning streak, have the defense and a brilliant incumbent star, guard Jalen Brunson, to give James the support he needs to win it all.
Rich Paul, James’ agent, said publicly James doesn’t want to be traded and will not be.
The superstar and his team will get an up-close-and-personal look at the Knicks when they face Brunson’s crew at Madison Square Garden on Saturday.