At 24-25, the Los Angeles Lakers are far from a lock to make the 2024 NBA Playoffs.

The Lakers somehow find themselves in the same position as they were this time last year, on the postseason bubble and facing enormous pressure to nail a deal at the NBA trade deadline.

Los Angeles has been desperately searching for the right pieces to surround LeBron James and Anthony Davis with since their 2020 title, but to no avail.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JANUARY 30: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during a timeout in the fourth quarter against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on January 30, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images).

Now, rumors are swirling of James’ discontent with the team after their embarrassing loss to the Atlanta Hawks.

James has a player option for next season and could decide to opt out and leave, leaving some to think it would be in his and the Lakers’ interest to seek a trade.

Chris Broussard offered up a trade idea involving the Golden State Warriors for James via First Things First.

“Expiring contracts, Klay (Thompson) and Jonathan Kuminga and some picks,” Broussard said.

 

Los Angeles likely shoots that offer down quickly because the idea of trading James to a division rival, especially one like Golden State, would immediately turn off fans.

While it would be fun to see Stephen Curry and James sharing the floor and chasing at least one more title in the downswing of their primes, a deal between the Warriors and Lakers seems highly unlikely.

However, other teams would be smart to check in with Los Angeles and see if there’s any sort of possibility of moving James.

It’s hard to see the two sides divorcing so abruptly, but things can change quickly in the NBA.