James’s agent, Rich Paul, released a statement along with the announcement from ESPN’s Shams Charania that made it clear his client “wants to compete for a championship” and that he understands that the Lakers are “preparing for the future.”

LeBron James declared one aim above all others when he returned to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014. "My goal is still to win as many titles as possible, no question," he explained in his now famous Sports Illustrated letter proclaiming his homecoming.

LeBron James made the surprising decision to pick up his $52.6 million player option instead of signing a new max deal with the Los Angeles Lakers.