Instead, new reporting from The Athletic’s Dan Woike and Joe Vardon clarifies that James has not asked for a trade or buyout. The Lakers have reportedly heard nothing from him or his representation about leaving. Meanwhile, the team is shifting focus toward Doncic’s long-term role in Los Angeles.

LeBron James shouldn't be leaving the Los Angeles Lakers despite the noise that surrounds the superstar and the iconic franchise. He has a no-trade clause, so he'd have to dictate where he wants to go, and it'd be hard to convince a team to give up significant assets for a soon-to-be 41-year-old.

Fortunately for them, a former teammate of LeBron James is basically begging them to sign him. Kevin Love, who was just traded by the Miami Heat to the Utah Jazz this summer, is expected to be bought out.