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ESPN's Charles Barkley made a prediction Wednesday about LeBron James' future with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Barkley believes this is LeBron's final season with the Lakers regardless of what happens in the playoffs.
"It's his last year with the Lakers," Barkley said. "He's not going to play with the Lakers next year."
Barkley appeared on ESPN's Inside the NBA ahead of the Lakers game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. James was honored pregame and was visibly emotional during a tribute video. He later said he wants James to end his career with his hometown team.
More: NBA insider says relationship between Lakers, LeBron is ending
"I've always said I'd like to see him finish in Cleveland," Barkley said. "I'm not opposed to him getting traded to Cleveland this year, to be honest with you."
Questions surrounding James' future with the Lakers are lingering. He will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason and could decide to leave LA for a better shot at winning his fifth ring.
The Lakers were blown out by the Cavs, losing 129-99. James had a tough night, scoring 11 points on 3/10 shooting in 27 minutes. The loss snapped a two-game win streak for LA, which has been playing up-and-down basketball lately.
Barkley jokingly made a bet with cohost Kenny Smith that the Lakers won't win the NBA Championship this season. He thinks the Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets are the top contenders in the Western Conference.
Los Angeles (28-18) is tied for fifth in the West with the Minnesota Timberwolves. James and the Lakers return to action Friday night against the Washington Wizards.
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