Former Lakers coach Byron Scott says he believes LeBron James will finish his career outside Los Angeles.
Speaking on the Byron Scott Fast Break podcast with Olden Polynice, Scott emphasized LeBron’s departure from Lakers traditions. “I think this is his final year with the Lakers. I think he’ll go back to Cleveland and play one more year there,” Scott said.
Polynice added, “He’s not a true Laker,” referencing the distinction between Lakers legends who retired with the franchise and LeBron’s career trajectory.
At 41, James is still producing at an All-Star level, averaging 21.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 7.0 assists across 44 games this season. He’s shooting 50.4% from the field and 31.3% from three.
The Lakers currently hold a 39-25 record, fifth in the Western Conference, with James playing alongside Luka Doncic, who leads the team with 32.5 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. Austin Reaves adds 23.5 points per contest.
Scott and Polynice argued that LeBron’s mindset differs from past Lakers icons. Polynice said, “Just like the fan base. There are Lakers fan base, and there are Kobe fan base.”
LeBron’s potential departure would mark the end of a 10-year tenure in Los Angeles, a period that included one championship in 2020. Analysts see his next move as a return to Cleveland, where he began his career and previously retired in 2018.
