On June 30th, LeBron James announced he would not be returning to the Los Angeles Lakers. His next destination will be interesting to watch. Here are two teams I would like to see him with.
The Golden State Warriors are the easy answer. The NBA world would like to see James and Steph Curry team up before both of them eventually hang it up. The storylines from being rivals in their prime to arguably the greatest duo in the league would be sweet.
The chemistry between the two was undeniable in the 2024 Olympics. The country as a whole had such a blast watching them play off one another, and if this were to happen, we get to see it for 60+ games. More importantly, James and Curry’s skillsets complement one another.
James’ incredible vision and passing, along with Curry’s ability to move without the ball and shooting, make Golden State the proper fit. The Warriors are also a viable option because of what Draymond Green did. He declined his $27.7 million player option for the 26-27′ season, allowing the roster more flexibility to add new players.
It would have been nice to see Anthony Davis tag along, but the Washington Wizards are dead set on keeping him. Regardless of where AD goes, the four-time MVP should consider Golden State as a nice farewell destination.
This is the team that gives James the best chance to compete for a title. Nikola Jokic gives this Denver Nuggets team a puncher’s chance every year due to his greatness alone. James can be that final piece that can help put them over the top.
Denver struggled on defense, ranking in the bottom half for points per game allowed and rating. James, even at his age, is still a solid defender and would be a key addition on that side of the ball. His size and defensive IQ can help the team be more sound defensively.
Finally, the Nuggets struggled mightily against stout defenses. Jamal Murray, in particular, had a hard time when teams picked him up full court. If James were on the team, could be the primary point guard at times. That will allow Murray to be a catch-and-shoot specialist, where he thrives most.
Teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Oklahoma City Thunder would not be able to suffocate James as they did to Murray, as he is too big and strong. Offensively, James has learned to play off the ball more and is a good cutter to the basket, which makes him the perfect wing man to Joker. If the four-time champ wants to add on more to the arsenal, Denver should be a consideration.
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These are the two teams I would love to see the King go to. He should end his career with a proper chance at a title, and if not, play with his greatest rival.
Teams such as the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat were also brought up in the sweepstakes, but those options, personally, make less sense. Cleveland, at the moment, has James Harden, so it would limit James’ ability to handle the ball. He would have to play third fiddle once again, and that was a role he didn’t seem to be pleased with as a Laker last year.
Miami could be enticing as they acquired Giannis Antetokounmpo, but that team is way away from competing. James would have to shoulder a heavy load jump shooting due to the Heat’s lack of three-point shooters. That’s too much to ask of a soon to be 42 year old.
Where do you think James will end up?
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