Despite some speculation over the summer, LeBron James hasn’t asked the Los Angeles Lakers to trade him. In fact, if anything, he seemed optimistic about the roster surrounding him on media day a couple of weeks ago.
But with James sidelined for the next few weeks due to sciatica, things could change. If the Lakers get off to a disappointing start this season and are unable to recover, anything is possible.
A trade involving James at midseason would seem nearly impossible to pull off, given all the moving parts and the fact that James has a rare no-trade clause and would want to be sent to a team that could contend for the NBA championship right away. On a recent episode of “The Kevin O’Connor Show,” Kevin O’Connor and ESPN salary cap guru Bobby Marks agreed that the New York Knicks would be the likeliest destination for James if he wants out.
“If it was a straight trade, you always think New York, potentially,” Marks said.
“I think the Knicks (too),” O’Connor added.
If LeBron James asks out, his most likely destination is ________.@BobbyMarks42 and I had the same answer for this fill in the blank. đŸ—½ https://t.co/x2tcC77YJcpic.twitter.com/98IcmoELiN
— Kevin O’Connor (@KevinOConnor) October 16, 2025
O’Connor then expanded on what playing for the Knicks could mean for James if that would be what he wants.
“It’s Madison Square Garden. He’s always called it his favorite arena. He could be a quote-unquote savior if he does help take them to a championship for the first time in decades.”
Marks mentioned how the Knicks have not only the contracts but also the roster depth to make such a trade happen. One would have to think big man Karl-Anthony Towns, who will make $53.1 million this season, would be involved. New York could also include either OG Anunoby or Mikal Bridges and still have a fairly impressive roster that could compete well in the Eastern Conference.
But all of that is moot, at least for now, as there are absolutely no indications that James wants out.
This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Two analysts name NBA team most likely to trade for LeBron James
