With the Los Angeles Lakers reorienting their plans around Luka Dončić and 2027 cap space, LeBron James finds himself in uncharted waters. For the first time in his career, he's not the focal point of his franchise.

ESPN NBA insider Brian Windhorst said there is meaning behind James’ recent actions, including a trip home to Ohio, while trade rumors swirl during a passive-aggressive spat with the Lakers despite exercising the $53 million option on his contract with the team for next season.