Lakers reportedly struggling to reconnect with LeBron James despite high interest in reunion

May 11, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the first half in game four of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Lakers got Austin Reaves to agree to a deal with no problems before entering free agency, but the same can’t be said about LeBron James. Just last week, it was reported that the two have been in communication.

However, with free agency creeping closer, it may be time to reconsider James’ future with the Lakers. There is growing belief that James could end up with a team outside of Los Angeles.

“It might even be more likely than not that he leaves Los Angeles than stays with the Lakers,” Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer said.

James is expected to be one of the most talked-about players in free agency, especially as he is reportedly willing to take a pay cut, shifting the focus more toward winning. The Lakers have attempted to work out a deal with James, but he has not engaged with those efforts.

“They reached out to LeBron representative Rich Paul and said ‘we’d like to have LeBron Back.’ But there have been no further talks. From what I understand, the Lakers have not made an offer. But LeBron, from what I understand as of today, when I got this update, LeBron has not, you know, made himself available to meet with the Lakers yet,” ESPN’s Brian Windhorst said.

While James has not agreed to meet with the Lakers regarding a new contract, he is reportedly scheduled to meet with the Golden State Warriors this week.

“LeBron James is preparing to meet with the Warriors this week as an unrestricted free agent. After Draymond Green opted out today, Golden State has the necessary flexibility to sign LeBron and trade for Anthony Davis. LeBron leaving the Lakers is gaining significant traction,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery posted.

It is a surprising turn of events, as it once seemed likely that James would return to Los Angeles if the Lakers pursued him. Now, the possibility of him joining Stephen Curry and Draymond Green in Golden State is beginning to gain momentum.

James is expected to continue keeping the Lakers waiting as he evaluates his options. Perhaps he knows the Lakers will remain available if other situations do not appeal to him. At this point, it is either that he is keeping his leverage or he is seriously considering chasing a championship elsewhere.

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