LOS ANGELES Lakers superstar LeBron James sent social media into a frenzy after hanging out with two essential members of the franchise’s front office.
NBA fans have proclaimed James is “retiring as a Laker” after the 39-year-old four-time champion appeared courtside next to team owner Jeanie Buss and Linda Rambis on Friday during Los Angeles’s showdown against the Milwaukee Bucks.
LeBron James stunned fans on FridayCredit: X
James sat courtside with the Lakers team owner on FridayCredit: X
James sat out the Friday contest with ankle soreness as the Lakers defeated the Bucks 123-122.
However, it was a moment that happened during a timeout that set social media on fire.
Buss and Rambis are seen in a video laughing, smiling, and joking around while James sits between them courtside, which led to many jokes online, including fans expressing that this seals his fate with the team.
“I’ve seen enough… LeBron James will retire as a Laker,” this fan expressed.
“Jeanie loves Bron, that man retiring a Laker,” another stated.
“He wants that max money,” a third said.
“He needs to discuss with her about ham and getting an all star next szn,” a fourth hoped.
James has a player option for $51.4 million this summer, which allows him to opt to enter free agency.
His future with the team has been in question all season as the Lakers have struggled to produce a consistent winning product on the floor, sitting in the 9th spot in the Western Conference.
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Earlier this season, NBA insider Marc Stein reported that he had been hearing rumblings of teams considering ways to lure James away from the Lakers.
“I know of at least two teams on the NBA map that believe LeBron James would consider signing with them at far less than $51.4 million if Bronny James is on the roster.
“There might be more,” Stein noted.
James has been very outspoken about his desire to play with Bronny and a report from the Athletic states that the Lakers have a similar plan to persuade James to stay in Los Angeles and will do whatever it takes to have him retire as a Laker.
“Their preference is for James to retire with the Lakers — a stance that a high-ranked team source reiterated.
“The Lakers are also willing to explore the notion of adding Bronny James next season.
