The Los Angeles Lakers surprised many by selecting Bronny James in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft, leading most to believe LeBron James’ career would remain with the team. However, the current offseason is casting doubts over James’ future, as the Lakers shift focus toward building around Luka Dončić for the upcoming era. This strategic pivot suggests the front office may not feel pressured to assemble a championship-caliber roster immediately.
Meanwhile, LeBron James, a 21-time All-Star, is intent on winning another Larry O’Brien Trophy soon and might seek a trade if that goal becomes unlikely with the Lakers.
Potential Trade Scenario Involving Oklahoma City Thunder
Among the more unexpected yet intriguing trade possibilities is LeBron James moving to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the reigning NBA champions. Although this scenario seems unlikely from the Thunder’s viewpoint, as their roster was recently built for sustained success, their wealth of assets gives them the flexibility to consider bold moves. Analyst Bailey Bassett at ClutchPoints predicts a significant trade could materialize this offseason involving the two teams.
According to the proposed deal, the Lakers would receive Isaiah Hartenstein, Aaron Wiggins, Kenrich Williams, along with two first-round draft picks in 2026—one of which would come via the Philadelphia 76ers. In return, the Thunder would acquire LeBron James and his son, Bronny James.
Hartenstein, Wiggins, and Williams could be used alongside draft capital in a trade for James. The Lakers desperately need a center, and there is perhaps no big man that they could get their hands on who is better than Hartenstein,
Bassett wrote.
Additionally, the Thunder have tons of future draft picks that they could dangle in front of the pick-deprived Lakers team. In fact, the Thunder might have too many picks, so they’d be smart to consolidate.
—Bailey Bassett, ClutchPoints Analyst
Why This Trade Could Make Sense for Both Franchises
If Thunder general manager Sam Presti is willing to modify the championship roster he carefully assembled, the exchange becomes logical. Isaiah Hartenstein’s spot could be filled by the 2025 NBA draft selection Thomas Sorber, while Wiggins and Williams serve as complementary role players. Losing some future draft selections would be manageable for an organization with a robust pipeline of picks.
For the Lakers, acquiring a skilled center like Hartenstein on a contract worth $87 million over three years addresses a critical roster need. Hartenstein has one guaranteed season left (2025-26), plus a team option for 2026-27, giving Los Angeles flexibility if his performance fits alongside Luka Dončić. With limited free-agent options for impact big men, the Lakers would gain both immediate support and long-term potential at the center position.
Complications and Considerations in Trading an Icon
Despite this intriguing proposal, there are many uncertainties. The trade market for LeBron James is difficult to predict, as any team acquiring him is likely securing a short-term veteran presence before he retires. James also retains significant control over his destination through a no-trade clause in his contract, allowing him to block any deal he disapproves of.
Furthermore, it is unclear whether James would choose to leave Los Angeles or accept a role with Oklahoma City. The loyalty factors and his desire to finish his career on his own terms add complexity to any potential trade discussions.
The Larger Impact and What This Could Mean Moving Forward
Should the Lakers and Thunder execute such a major trade this offseason, it would signal the end of the LeBron James era in Los Angeles and the start of a new chapter centered on Luka Dončić. For the Thunder, adding James and his son would provide star power and veteran leadership, potentially accelerating their championship window.
For the Lakers, receiving a significant center and multiple draft picks would lay groundwork for rebuilding or retooling around younger talent. Ultimately, this proposed trade reflects the high stakes and rapidly evolving landscape of the NBA offseason, with both franchises weighing immediate success against long-term planning.