Report: Chris Paul Telling People LeBron James Wants to Play in Los Angeles

Chris Paul has reportedly started telling people that LeBron James is not going to join him in Houston because the Cleveland Cavaliers star wants to be in Los Angeles.

This is according to ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, who said that the rumor came from his “sources.” James has long been speculated to move to the Los Angeles Lakers because of his houses and businesses in L.A. However, Smith did not identify whether James would prefer joining the Lakers or the Los Angeles Clippers.

“According to my sources, several things are happening. A, Chris Paul is telling folks LeBron ain’t trying to come to Houston, he want to be in L.A,” reported Smith. “These are things I’m getting through the grapevine. Point number two, folks are not so sure Paul George is coming to L.A.”

Despite Paul’s reported intel, the Houston Rockets have been listed as one of James’ potential destinations when he enters unrestricted free agency next month.

Before that can happen, James has to first decide whether he wants to stay in Cleveland or not. According to reports, the three-time NBA champion has to inform the Cavaliers by June 29 whether he wants to opt in or not.

ESPN’s Chris Haynes said that a sign-and-trade deal between the Cavs and Lakers could also happen with Lonzo Ball as a potential trade piece to get James.

Meanwhile, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that James could be having a conversation with Oklahoma City Thunder forward Paul George regarding a potential Lakers team-up.

James has led the Cavaliers to four straight NBA Finals appearances since he rejoined the club in 2014, winning one title in 2016.