Internal tensions within the Los Angeles Lakers have not reached a breaking point, despite the strong media impact generated by a recent report from ESPN, which detailed disagreements within the Buss family and Jeanie Buss’s perception of LeBron James as the face of the franchise since 2018.

The issue regained momentum after the Lakers’ loss to Kawhi Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday night at the Intuit Dome. After the game, LeBron spoke to the media in the locker room and was asked by Dan Woike of The Athletic whether he intends to finish the season with the team.

LeBron James sends a clear message about his future

Although his response was brief and straightforward, the future Hall of Famer hinted that his plan is to remain with the Lakers, at least until the end of his contract, which runs through the 2025–26 NBA season.

The context adds a particular nuance to the situation. The NBA trade deadline, set for February 5, is less than two weeks away, a key period when franchises typically ramp up negotiations to strengthen their rosters or redefine their long-term direction.

As happens every year at this point in the calendar, the Lakers are once again at the center of trade rumors. Speculation includes both potential additions and possible departures, with LeBron James’ name resurfacing in the discussion. However, his no-trade clause gives him full control over any move that would send him to another team.

While a separation before the deadline seems unlikely, it cannot be completely ruled out if internal noise continues to grow and begins to affect the stability of the project.

In this scenario, the Golden State Warriors emerge as a team to watch. The San Francisco franchise has previously tried to pair LeBron with Stephen Curry, and in recent days rumors have circulated linking them both to a potential pursuit of LeBron in free agency and to an ambitious move for Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The outcome remains open. The big question is whether LeBron James’ time in Los Angeles is nearing its end—and whether that turning point will come before the trade deadline or during the summer free agency period.

Watch beIN SPORTS Xtra live for free on YouTube