James signing with the Lakers is the second priority, with Reaves being first! The Lakers have begun their efforts to retain LeBron.

When it comes to the priority of signing with the Lakers this summer, James could be second, with Reaves leading the way. Lakers media figure Jovan Buha stated that the franchise would prioritize re-signing Reaves over James.

"At present, there are two key distinctions between LeBron and Reaves. For one, LeBron is a short-term fix, whereas Reaves is viewed as a long-term foundation by the organization. So, if it ultimately comes down to this choice: Would you rather give Reaves $40 million over the next five years, or give LeBron $40 million for one year? In that scenario, they would opt for the long-term contract. Therefore, for the Lakers, Reaves takes precedence over LeBron—that's the reality."

Former NBA player Jeff Teague commented on this during a show, saying that if the Lakers start prioritizing Reaves over James, then it's time for LeBron to leave the Lakers: "It's time to go, Bron. If those guys start putting Austin Reaves ahead of you, I like Austin Reaves, but you can't disrespect the GOAT like that."

If James does depart, the Cavaliers are considered the most likely landing spot.

Cavaliers reporter Danny Cunningham discussed the prospect of James returning to Cleveland. A sign-and-trade for James, involving Jarrett Allen, is uncertain whether it's the most reasonable approach: "It's hard to put a specific percentage on how likely LeBron's return is, but I think it's a very real possibility."

"So, would trading Jarrett Allen for LeBron be the most reasonable move? There are indeed many factors to weigh. If the price is right, the Cavaliers should definitely be active in pursuing LeBron James."

"I would be surprised if LeBron plays anywhere other than Los Angeles or Cleveland. I don't see him going to another team. I'd hate to see him wearing a jersey he's never worn before late in his career. So I think his options are Los Angeles, Cleveland, Miami, or retirement."

"Personally, I hope it's Cleveland. I think that would be a perfect fit and a great story. But I'm also not sure it makes the most sense for the Cavaliers to give up Allen for him."

Besides the Cavaliers, the Knicks also have a certain chance of acquiring James.

Last July, James joined former Nets head coach Steve Nash at a fan carnival event in New York. He addressed the crowd: "There are a lot of Knicks fans here, right? What about the Nets fans? So are those boos for the Nets or for Nash? Haha. Knicks fans, how are you doing? You'll make the Finals next year—just wait and see."

And as it turned out, James' prediction came true. This year's Finals feature the Knicks against the Spurs, starting the day after tomorrow. Victor Wembanyama has really drawn a lot of fans, reaching the Finals in his third NBA season. As for superstars making their first Finals appearance, it took James four years, Kobe four years, and Jordan seven years.

James is still on vacation on a European island in Italy. He went out on a boat again today, posting a photo with the caption: "This is one of my favorite places to go in the world."

He then shared a photo of a giant lemon in his hand, writing: "What the heck?!"

The Lakers' official social media account also updated, after a long hiatus, with their first post about James. They shared several game photos of him with the caption: "LeBron's most iconic photos of this season."

The last time the Lakers posted about James was on May 10, celebrating him moving into third place all-time in playoff three-pointers made.

It seems the Lakers have started making moves to retain James.