Tyler Conway@@jtylerconwayFeatured Columnist IVJanuary 9, 2023
SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 7: LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakers dribbles the ball during the game against the Sacramento Kings on January 7, 2023 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images

That doesn't mean he's looking for one of his own, even though he may be ramping up the pressure on the LA Lakers to make a move.

Windhorst doesn't think James will try to force a trade if the Lakers don't make a significant move.

Windhorst said that someone who has no intention of leaving the Lakers extended his contract. His goal is to make the Lakers uneasy. He won't walk on them. The Lakers are aware of that.

After making one of the more disastrous trades in the history of the NBA, they are being very cautious about making a second trade that would really hurt them.

In an interview with Sam Amick of The Athletic, James said that he wants the roster to improve.

"Y'all know what's going on," James said. I don't need to say anything.

Lakers Rumors: No Indication LeBron James Wants to Leave LA amid Trade Buzzโœจ Watch more top videos, highlights, and B/R original content

His patience isn't waning, he said in an attempt to clarify his comments.

LeBron James @KingJames

Upmost respect and calmness cause that's the mood I'm in! Your welcome! 5 game winning streak. ๐Ÿ˜‰๐Ÿ‘‘

James has been in the public eye for 25 years, but he has been in the NBA for 20 years. If he was calculated with his words, he would be nothing.

This appears to be a clear attempt at sending a message while retaining plausible deniability.

James wants a better team with Anthony Davis. The team is stuck in a state of limbo because the front office can't improve the roster unless they attach future first-round picks to his contract.

While he doesn't want to leave Los Angeles, he isn't playing the game to get a play-in spot.