Lakers Need LeBron James to Sign New Contract to Keep Future Title Hopes Alive amid NBA Rumors

The Athletic's Sam Amick reported on Los Angeles Lakers megastar LeBron James, "the widely-held consensus around the league was that there's no way he'd be back in a Lakers jersey. The Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors were, and are, often mentioned by league executives as his most likely destinations."

He added that it was "the lack of synergy and consistent success with James on the court, above all else, that drove this idea of an unavoidable exit."

Except the Lakers are 9-1 in their last 10 games, third in the Western Conference, and a legitimate threat to dethrone the Oklahoma City Thunder as champions.

Much of that can be attributed to Luka Doncic's MVP-worthy play (33.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists per game) this season, but also James' willingness to take a back seat to the 27-year-old and undrafted star Austin Reaves, both of whom have become more prominently featured in the Lakers' game plan than the future Hall of Fame.

Still, James has averaged 17.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game during that 10-game span. His ability to get boards, dish the ball, and not force shots has helped the Lakers discover that chemistry and consistency that was absent earlier in the season.

It is his selflessness, and willingness to facilitate rather than star, that has been key to the success of the team as it makes its playoff push.

That James can still fire off 45 points when needed and take over a game is another invaluable asset that makes the biggest star in the NBA someone the Lakers must ensure stays put this off-season.

Yes, ESPN's Baxter Holmes reported on the strained relationship between James and the Lakers organization. Yes, James responded by stating that he does not care what anyone thinks about him. The tension was, and may still be, real.

But James has the ability to wrap up his career with an organization that is still a legitimate championship contender, thanks to the MVP candidate at the forefront of it. The Lakers have the chance to retain the services of one of the most beloved stars in any sport of the last two decades. The team on the court has the chance to thrive for at least the next season or two, as long as James remains committed to playing.

It is a worthwhile reunion for all involved and one that must be explored for the sake of title hopes and legacy.