Lakers fans may want to temper their expectations.
LeBron James signing with Los Angeles in free agency next summer is considered "a longshot," according to a recent ESPN report.
Speaking of "longshot" -- LeBron is shooting over 42 percent from 3-point territory this season (his career high for a season is 40.6 percent).
The three-time NBA champion has a player option for the 2018-19 season at over $35.6 million, but he is expected to decline it and test the waters.
Speculation about LeBron picking the Lakers began as early as last summer.
"LeBron is focused on this season and winning a championship," his agent Rich Paul told ESPN. "At the appropriate time, we will explore all the options. Now is not the time."
As the ESPN story articulates:
Sports
The Lakers will have big cap space next summer. But they don't have enough to add a second max player without making several big trades or waiving-and-stretching Luol Deng and the $37 million remaining on his contract.
And despite the promise of their young players like Ball, Brandon Ingram and Kyle Kuzma, none of them are surefire All-Stars yet.
LeBron and the Cavaliers host the Lakers on Thursday night.
Drew Shiller is the co-host of Warriors Outsiders. Follow him on Twitter @DrewShiller
