D espite LeBron James picking up his $52.6 million player option to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers for next season, there's never been more speculation surrounding his status with the team. That's in part because no new contract was negotiated this summer to keep him there past this upcoming season,

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the year ahead could be pivotal in helping James decide what he wants to do next offseason.

Despite no confirmed discussions of a buyout or trade, Simmons' comments add fuel to the rumor mill, especially as the Heat remain a plausible destination due to salary cap considerations and draft a...