LeBron James finds himself in an unfamiliar position. Following the Los Angeles Lakers' trade for Luka Dončić, he is no longer the focal point of his teams plans for the first time in his legendary NBA career.

The Lakers front office has prioritized maintaining cap flexibility for the summer of 2027 -- where they will look to find a long-term co-star for Dončić. That decision has sparked rumors that James could ask out of Los Angeles despite him picking up his $52.6 million player option for 2025-26.

Anthony Irwin of Clutch Points recently shared that the four-time MVP has been frustrated with the franchise's direction since the Russell Westbrook trade.

"On LeBron James’ side, there is real frustration over the Lakers’ lack of direction since the Russell Westbrook trade," Clutch Points' Anthony Irwin wrote Wednesday. "The whole thing has become pretty awkward, and yet the reality is they’re both better off with each other."

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"There is no trade the Lakers would make that would give James a better chance at a title than he has playing with Doncic," Irwin continued. "There’s also no trade James would accept that would benefit the Lakers and fit their parameters as they look to pair Luka Doncic with either Giannis Antetokounmpo or Nikola Jokic."

James continued to play at a high level in his 22nd season -- finishing sixth in the MVP race and earning second-team All-NBA honors. While he is under pressure to win now, there is not a feasible option for the two sides to part ways.

Despite his frustrations over the franchise's lack of direction, James reportedly played a large role in the decision to trade for Westbrook -- which has set the Lakers back. Rumors will continue to swirl regarding his future, however, it appears that the four-time champion will be back in Los Angeles.

More NBA: Lakers star LeBron James not expected to pursue a trade or buyout