The Los Angeles Lakers held a press conference on Thursday afternoon at the UCLA Health Training Center. Rob Pelinka and JJ Redick took questions from members of the media, and Pelinka made the organization’s stance on LeBron James’ future in Southern California abundantly clear: the Lakers want number 23 to retire in Los Angeles.
As we approach a season that was already going to be swirling about questions concerning LeBron and how the conclusion of his illustrious career might turn out, this kind of statement from Pelinka helps the organization relieve speculation. It signals to the fanbase, the media, and even to LeBron himself that his legacy in Los Angeles is a priority for the organization.
Obviously, the Lakers continue to build this team primarily around Luka Doncic. But this statement shows that they are still putting some sort of emphasis on bridging the gap between eras. They aren’t forgetting about LeBron, even though he’s well past his prime days at this point.
Saying this in front of gathered media helps clean up the optics around LeBron’s current situation with the Lakers. If he does end up leaving during the coming season, it won’t look like the organization forced him out.
Pelinka continues to speak about LeBron in terms of retirement
By publicly affirming that LeBron remains a core part of the Lakers’ identity, the team might also be indirectly helping themselves in future negotiations. Essentially, it’s a message to free agents and stars who are weighing the benefits and drawbacks of playing for the Lakers.
Also, by declaring that they want James to retire in Los Angeles, the Lakers are basically raising the stakes here. If the upcoming season becomes a disappointment or if LeBron’s level of play falls off sharply, the disappointment from fans could be that much sharper.
There’s also the possibility that Pelinka saying this could limit LA’s flexibility (or as he said it, optionality) down the line. If James opts to ask for a trade this season anyway, taking this public stance could end up looking either a bit naïve or disingenuous.
But regardless of what follows it, this was a clear statement from the Lakers of how they view LeBron James as his career continues to wind down. To them, he isn’t just another superstar passing through Southern California. He’s someone they want to see finish his journey in the purple and gold, with a legacy tied permanently to the franchise.