"The team has been resistant to taking on longer-term contracts in an effort to maintain flexibility," The Athletic wrote. "... if the Lakers were to, hypothetically, trade James to the Golden State Warriors for Jimmy Butler, who is nearly 36, they would have Butler under contract for the 2026-27 season at nearly $57 million."

The Los Angeles Lakers are staying put this offseason, dismissing rumors of pursuing Andrew Wiggins and focusing on internal growth. Despite LeBron James attracting interest from multiple teams like the Cavaliers,