LeBron James open to hearing from any interested team

LeBron James isn’t limiting his options.

According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, James has instructed agent Rich Paul to let interested teams know he’s willing to hear their pitches as he prepares for free agency.

James informed the Lakers on Tuesday that he will not return for a ninth season with the franchise, ending an eight-year run in Los Angeles that included the 2020 NBA championship.

Now, he’ll take his time before deciding where to play next.

McMenamin reported James is expected to weigh multiple offers and is not considered to be in a rush to choose his next team. That process could include sign-and-trade scenarios if the Lakers are willing to cooperate.

As Hoops Wire has previously reported, the Cavaliers, Warriors and Heat are among the teams viewed around the league as potential destinations. The Athletic has also reported the Timberwolves have interest.

James, 41, reportedly spent time following the Lakers’ playoff exit evaluating whether he wanted to continue playing before deciding to return for a record 24th NBA season.

Where that season will take place remains the biggest question.

Another is what type of contract James will ultimately seek. Most teams linked to the four-time MVP have limited financial flexibility, making his next deal one of the more intriguing storylines as free agency gets underway.