We did not see that coming. No one actually saw that coming. The Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis trade broke the internet and everyone was equally bamboozled by the situation. The trade raised more questions than answers with the most significant one being LeBron James’ future. The King had no idea of his best bud’s exit and found it out at the family dinner. Since then LeBron has kept quiet over his future with the Lakers but we have some clarity now.

According to Chris Haynes, LeBron James will remain a Laker. “League sources informed me that LeBron James intends to remain a member of the Los Angeles Lakers past the February 6th trade deadline. So even though the Lakers were able to pull off one of the biggest trades in recent history by acquiring Luka Doncic and moving AD to Dallas, LeBron James plans to stay with the Lakers,” Haynes reported via his social media brief.

Not only that, the Lakers are even “appreciative of the professionalism displayed by Clutch Sports CEO, Rich Paul, and LeBron James.” They felt those two made this process a seamless one. Does that mean LeBron James knew something about it?

But let’s rest this speculation and look at something else. An interesting notion floated by Ira Winderman. The Heat insider speculated on X, “So LeBron now to Warriors? (Instead of Jimmy?) Lakers can cast it as giving LeBron a chance for one last shot alongside Steph.”

That’s something too good to be true. But the Doncic trade proved once again about the unpredictability of this league. LeBron James when inquired earlier declined about having any prior knowledge about the trade. But the information provided by the insider clearly indicates LeBron having a say in the whole thing. And if he is vetoing a move that can only mean one thing. He stays! However, sources are speculative only until an official statement is provided. That’s what the Lakers did as Rob Pelinka finally broke the silence on the trade.

Rob Pelinka breaks silence on Anthony Davis trade as LeBron James stays

At the time of writing, Mavs GM, Nico Harrison is busy with the press conference alongside Jason Kidd. He clarified that the discussion of the trade was ongoing for weeks and Kidd had no idea about it. On this side, Rob Pelinka also issued a statement to clarify the situation. “We are overwhelmingly thankful for AD’s six seasons with the Lakers, where he led our franchise to a championship and cemented himself as a perennial NBA All-Star,” said Lakers General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka. Max Christie who was a part of the trade also got his deserved shout-out.

“We are proud of Max Christie’s development as a Laker as he has grown into an impact 3-and-D player and we are appreciative of the work Jalen Hood-Schifino has put in to show professionalism at every level,” the statement read. It also included LeBron James’ new running mate, Luka Doncic. Praising the “one-of-a-kind, young global superstar,” the Lakers expressed their hopes on the Slovenian to lead the team for the years to come.

Rumbling around the league is indicating that Rob Pelinka is not done yet. A few more moves can be in store ahead of the trade deadline on Feb 6. Will a twist of fate even route LeBron James from LA or is the King getting more cavalry for one last push for the 5th ring? Share your thoughts with us!