Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Lakers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
With LeBron James set to be an unrestricted free agent this summer, he’ll have all of the options on the table regarding what his future in basketball will be. He can negotiate a new deal with the Lakers, take his talents elsewhere, or call it a career after 23 years in the NBA.
LeBron has made it clear he isn’t sure what the future will be, leaving everyone wondering how much of his career is left and where that ending will take place.
For our SB Nation Reacts survey this week, we asked, what does the future hold for LeBron James?
The results are in, and 40% of fans believe he will be joining the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Now, 40% is a big number, but it makes sense given LeBron’s history. After all, he’s the kid from Akron and what better way to end his career than where it all started?
While the Cavs option did win the poll, the Lakers were a very close second at 38%. Since LeBron joined the Lakers, there has been speculation about his exit. However, he’s been here for eight years, his longest stint in one place in his career. So, how appropriate would it be if he closed things out here while everyone speculates about a change?
LA looks like a good team with LeBron, and if they can figure out a contract that allows the Lakers to pursue other players, James’ return might be best for all involved.
It would allow them to keep an All-Star player, improve as a team and celebrate LeBron as he calls it a career.
The front office has consistently stated that they would love for James to return next year.
Tied for last are the options of LeBron retiring or joining another team. It’s surprising that retiring is so low given his age and the years on his body, but then again, until he leaves, it’s probably always going to feel like he’ll play.
Only 11% voting for a different team makes sense. This late into his career, playing somewhere else might seem like a lot of change just to wrap it up in a season or two.
Another question in our SB Nation Reacts survey asked who should win the MVP this season.
It’s important to note that this was asked last week before Luka Dončić went off and scored 60 against the Heat.
In our poll, Victor Wembanyama was the winner with 39% of the vote.
Wemby has had a great year, averaging 24.3 points, 11.1 rebounds, and three blocks per game. Considering he’s leading the Spurs to their best season in years, he has a valid argument for MVP.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander getting 34% of the vote also isn’t a shock. He won the MVP last year and his team is destined to be the No. 1 seed in the West, yet again.
Nikola Jokić got 15% of the vote and Cade Cunnigham came in last at 12%.
With Luka Dončić leading the league in scoring and the Lakers currently sitting at No. 3 in the West, he’s also putting himself in the MVP race.
On FanDuel, Luka’s MVP odds are at +1500, so it seems that the betting markets agree that he is a top candidate.
There’s still a month of basketball to go, so we’ll see if Luka improves his odds and makes this a compelling MVP race. And as far as LeBron’s future, it looks like that’s going to be more of a wait-and-see game.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.
