Like sharks sensing a presence in the water, Rich Paul's cryptic statement that accompanied LeBron James' decision to opt in to his $52.6 million salary for next season led some teams to call the Los Angeles Lakers about the four-time NBA MVP's availability.

LeBron James Sends 1-Word Message After Cavaliers Trade Rumors originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James is entering his 23rd NBA season. Exercising his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 campaign, James bypassed the opportunity to become a free agent. That said, his Lakers future is anything but clear.

The Cavs can trade for James if they want, and he waived his no-trade clause. I would be in favor of them doing so, but that isn’t the only option on the table for them. James could also become a free agent if he were bought out of his contract this summer.