League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Transactions

LeBron James urged to leave Lakers amid Austin Reaves speculation

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 3, 2026, 9:48 AM

Last updated Jun 3, 2026

LeBron James urged to leave Lakers amid Austin Reaves speculation

Summary

Former NBA champion Jeff Teague suggested that LeBron James should consider leaving the Los Angeles Lakers if the team prioritizes Austin Reaves during free agency. Jovan Buha reported that the Lakers might prioritize Reaves due to his fit with Luka Doncic's timeline, as James approaches his 42nd birthday. Teague criticized the idea of Reaves being favored over James, referencing historic comparisons. If James departs this summer, he is expected to attract interest from teams like the Golden State Warriors or Cleveland Cavaliers, should he take a significant pay cut.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Teague suggests James leave Lakers if Reaves prioritized
•Lakers may favor Reaves in free agency decisions
•James linked to Warriors or Cavaliers if he leaves
•Possible significant pay cut discussed for James at new team

Latest Updates

9:48 AMYahoo Sports — Los Angeles Lakers’ LeBron James Urged to Leave the Team Amid Austin Reaves Conundrum

What they're saying

"
Former NBA champion Jeff Teague recently said that LeBron James should consider leaving the Los Angeles Lakers if the team is truly prioritizing Austin Reaves over him in free agency this offseason. According to Los Angeles Lakers reporter Jovan Buha, the franchise will likely prioritize Reaves over James in certain contract scenarios, as the former [...]
— Yahoo Sports

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Golden State Warriors Los Angeles Lakers NBA Basketball