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NBA Rumors: 5 free agent destinations for LeBron James

By Rucker Haringey

Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) reacts after a score against the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Cleveland Cavaliers won 95-85. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) reacts after a score against the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Cleveland Cavaliers won 95-85. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 15, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (24) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) in the second half of the NBA game at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 15, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (24) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) in the second half of the NBA game at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports /

player. 20. . Pacific Division. Western Conference. Los Angeles Lakers. 4

Don’t forget that the Lakers are going to look drastically different next season. Kobe Bryant is hanging it up at the conclusion of this season and they’ll have big money to spend in Free Agency. LeBron could head to the City of Lights and bring another star or two with him.

The Lakers also have a few interesting young players that could make it an attractive landing spot for James and another high-priced veteran. D’Angelo Russell is showing signs of becoming a star at the point, and Julius Randle is an interesting big man. Neither has looked great this season, but who would playing alongside Bryant’s corpse? Byron Scott’s coaching isn’t helping matters either.

Just think about putting together a starting five of Russell, Jordan Clarkson, LeBron, Randle and a free agent like Al Horford. It may not be the star-studded lineup that James has enjoyed in other cities, but it has the makings of an interesting team.

Of course the real attraction for James moving to LA would be the commercial opportunities available to him. LeBron understands the value of his brand and expanding his reach on the West Coast could be huge for his life after basketball. Don’t underestimate the pull of LA and all its stars on King James.

Next: 3. Miami Heat

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