Any deal between the two teams would see the Warriors give up a substantial package for James, with Jonathan Kuminga likely included.

But with the team entering a pivotal offseason and Luka Doncic stepping into his prime, an internal dilemma has emerged, one that Lakers insider Jovan Buha shed light on in his latest podcast.

James, still incredibly productive far beyond any rational plan for a player this deep into his career, will be an unrestricted free agent after this year.