ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski Has Major Update On LeBron's Decision
OAKLAND, CA - JANUARY 16: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers stands on the court during their game against the Golden State Warriors at ORACLE Arena on January 16, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
LeBron James' free agency decision appears to be hinging on a potential trade between the Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs. If the trade gets done, James basically has his ticket booked to Southern California.
ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski is reporting that James' decision to come to the Lakers would likely be "clinched" if Los Angeles can pull off a trade for Kawhi Leonard.
Wojnarowski and Ramona Shelburne reported earlier this evening that the Spurs and Lakers had "re-engaged" on trade talks for Kawhi.
The stakes on these talks are enormous, because a deal for Leonard would likely clinch a free agent commitment out of LeBron James. James has until late Friday night to opt-out of the final year of his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The Spurs have wanted to find a way to repair the franchise's relationship with Leonard, but an overwhelming Lakers offer could convince San Antonio to part with its franchise star, league sources said.
The Spurs are seeking a big haul from the Lakers as a result of this. They know if Los Angeles gets Kawhi, LeBron is likely coming, too.
Los Angeles could end up shipping out a package featuring some of: Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, Josh Hart, Julius Randle and/or future draft picks.
LeBron has until Friday at midnight to opt into his contract for the 2018-19 season. If the Lakers can get a trade for Kawhi done before then, LeBron is unlikely to opt into that contract.
