Kendrick Perkins has revealed that the Los Angeles Lakers may entertain the idea of trading LeBron James if the star forward requests it.
Speaking on First Take, Perkins shared, “If LeBron James at any point comes out and says he wants to be traded or entertain the idea, they’re going to entertain it. There ain’t no holding him back.”
Perkins added context to the situation, noting that last year, Golden State inquired about James, but his agent, Rich Paul, quickly shut down any trade talks. Paul’s intervention ensured James remained in Los Angeles, but the situation this season could play out differently.
James, who turns 40 later this month, continues to defy expectations in his 22nd NBA season. The Lakers star is averaging 23 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 9.1 assists in 35 minutes per game. Despite his production, the team’s reliance on him has raised concerns about his workload and long-term durability.
The Lakers, currently eighth in the Western Conference with a 13-11 record, have struggled with inconsistency and injuries throughout the season. James has shouldered much of the burden.
James is in the first year of a two-year, $101 million contract, with the second year being a player option. This contractual flexibility means James could dictate his future if he chooses to pursue opportunities outside Los Angeles.
