Lakers predicted to sign $109M Finals champion, All-Star amid LeBron James succession plans originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

LeBron James named his ideal NBA Finals matchup for the Los Angeles Lakers, and it involves a rivalry with very deep roots.

Retirement is a real possibility for LeBron James this summer. But a recent resurgence — and the Lakers winning — might delay that.

He and his teammates have a difficult road ahead to get there, but 22-time All-Star LeBron James is imagining another installment in the legendary playoff rivalry between the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics.

Plus, is it too soon for San Antonio to break through, how far can Jayson Tatum take the Celtics after returning from injury and if the Pistons are built for the postseason.

In a recent podcast episode, Patrick Beverley highlighted one special run that would tie LeBron James to Michael Jordan in the GOAT debate.