Lakers forward, guard predicted to leave for Nuggets to help Nikola Jokic after contract news

A trade proposal by Dan Favale suggests the Los Angeles Lakers could make a franchise-altering move by trading LeBron James and his son Bronny James to the Denver Nuggets.

The proposed deal would send LeBron and Bronny James to the Nuggets in exchange for guard Jamal Murray, forward Peyton Watson, center DaRon Holmes, and a 2028 first-round pick swap. Favale argues LeBron, described as a "basketball sicko," would see value in joining forces with Nikola Jokic, and Bronny's inclusion solves any potential objections.

Favale acknowledges the Nuggets would become thinner by losing two rotation players (Murray and Watson) for essentially one (LeBron), but contends it's manageable given offseason additions like Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr. Losing Holmes would only be significant if Jonas Valančiūnas leaves Denver.

The trade represents swapping youth for the 41-year-old LeBron. Favale suggests Denver might prefer this direction, highlighting that Murray is about to start a lucrative four-year, $207.8 million extension and Watson is eligible for an extension now.

However, the likelihood of the Lakers trading LeBron James is questioned. A report from Sam Amico cites an anonymous scout who is "100% certain" the Lakers will retain James even if he requests a trade.