The Los Angeles Lakers might be inching closer to a future that doesn’t include LeBron James — and a hypothetical blockbuster from Sports Illustrated’s Dan Angell shows how it could happen.
In Angell’s mock trade, LeBron and his son, Bronny James, head to the Golden State Warriors in exchange for forward Jimmy Butler and a 2028 first-round pick. The idea isn’t just wild — it’s one of the few scenarios where the salary cap math actually works.
The Cap Challenge
LeBron’s $54.5 million salary, paired with Bronny’s rookie minimum, lines up almost perfectly with Butler’s deal. Under current NBA rules, the Lakers — sitting over the first apron — would need comparable salary in return. Some contenders, like Cleveland, are locked out entirely by second-apron restrictions. Golden State, however, could make it happen.
The Warriors acquired Butler from the Miami Heat this past February, banking on the six-time All-Star to revive their playoff push. He delivered: 20.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game while helping Golden State notch 48 wins and a Play-In berth.
Why the Lakers Might Say Yes
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“The Lakers really don’t love the idea of taking on Butler’s contract, especially with LeBron’s contract due to expire at the end of the 2025-26 season,” Angell wrote Tuesday. “They want to be free of LeBron’s contract, but there’s no way to do that before the end of 2026 without taking equal value back.”
That’s where the 2028 first-round pick comes in — a key sweetener that fits the Lakers’ broader plan to build around Luka Dončić. Butler, meanwhile, would keep Los Angeles competitive in the short term, offering elite defense and steady scoring. And if the front office wants, he could be flipped again for more assets.
Why the Warriors Might Say Yes
Golden State would be making a win-now gamble, swapping Butler’s two-way versatility for LeBron’s unmatched playmaking and postseason pedigree — even at age 40. The move would unite LeBron with Stephen Curry, giving the franchise one more legitimate shot at a title before its core ages out.
Adding Bronny serves two purposes: it fulfills LeBron’s stated desire to share an NBA court with his son and gives them a young, defensively active guard to develop.
The Verdict
It’s a rare trade idea that works for both sides — at least on paper. For the Lakers, it’s a step toward the post-LeBron era without bottoming out. For the Golden State, it’s the ultimate “one last run” move.
As Angell notes, LeBron’s no-trade clause means nothing happens without his blessing. But if all parties signed off, this would instantly become one of the most headline-grabbing deals in NBA history.