LeBron James, a four-time NBA Champion and cornerstone of the Los Angeles Lakers, has been at the center of trade rumors for years. However, his close friend and former teammate, Carmelo Anthony, recently dismissed the idea of James being moved, citing LeBron’s influence over his career decisions.
During a recent episode of Anthony’s 7PM in Brooklyn podcast, the NBA veteran shared insights into how teams approach James with trade possibilities. “There are front offices trying to see what packages they could put together. They’re calling, trying to gauge interest,” Anthony explained. Despite this, he firmly stated, “LeBron makes the trades. If he wants to be traded, he’ll make it happen. That window is closed for now.”
LeBron James shows what activity was he involved in during his absence from the Lakers
LeBron’s unique career: untouched by trades
Unlike many NBA superstars, James has never been traded in his 20-year career, a testament to his control and stature in the league. Even last season, rumors of a potential trade were squashed when James declined offers at the trade deadline. According to Anthony, the idea of LeBron being traded this season is equally improbable.
Jovan Buha of The Athletic further corroborates this sentiment, stating that James and Anthony Davis are considered “untouchables” by the Lakers‘ front office. “Two players who almost certainly won’t be traded, barring them asking out of Los Angeles, are Davis and James,” Buha noted.
Melo reflects on missed Lakers opportunities
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Carmelo Anthony has discussed Lakers-related trades. On Dwyane Wade’s podcast earlier this year, Anthony revealed a failed trade that could have sent him to Los Angeles during the prime of Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol.
“The deal was done. Me and Nene for Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum. It never happened,” Anthony shared. Though he ultimately joined the Lakers in 2021, the missed opportunity to play alongside Bryant and Gasol remains a significant “what if” in NBA history.
What’s next for LeBron?
As the trade deadline approaches, rumors surrounding James are unlikely to fade entirely. However, with Carmelo Anthony emphasizing LeBron’s agency and the Lakers doubling down on his “untouchable” status, fans can expect to see the King remain in Los Angeles, at least for now.
For the Lakers, the focus remains on maximizing their playoff potential with James and Davis at the helm. Meanwhile, LeBron continues to chart his own path, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
