Shaquille O'Neal Says LeBron James Will Choose Next Team Based on Championship Prospects
Former NBA star Shaquille O'Neal told Extra that LeBron James is likely to sign with a team that offers a realistic chance at a title, mentioning the Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers and Minnesota Timberwolves as possible destinations.
LeBron James has not yet announced his destination for the 2024-25 NBA season, his 24th and likely final campaign. Former teammate Shaquille O'Neal said the decision will hinge on the prospect of winning another championship. > "Knowing LeBron, he's going to go somewhere he can win another ring," O'Neal told Extra, adding that teams such as Miami, Golden State, Philadelphia, Cleveland and Minnesota could be in the mix.
O'Neal also noted that the Los Angeles Lakers have moved on from the aging star, stating that the franchise wanted to get younger and reduce James' influence over roster decisions. He said he would not be opposed to James finishing his career where it began, in Cleveland, describing it as a "historical way to close the chapter of your career."
James' agent Rich Paul has indicated that financial considerations are secondary to the goal of competing for a title, and several analysts have identified the Heat, Warriors, 76ers, Cavaliers and Timberwolves as viable contenders. O'Neal reflected on his own departure from the Lakers, explaining that a contract dispute, not personal conflict, prompted his trade to Miami, where he later won a fourth championship.
The former NBA center concluded that James will need to choose carefully to maximize his chances of adding a fifth ring before retirement.