Los Angeles-based reporter claims Lakers are shopping LeBron James

It's easy to doubt the report, considering Pingalore isn't a nationally known name. However, he seems surprisingly plugged into the NBA world, correctly reporting news first on moves by stars like Kawhi Leonard and James himself. 

The Lakers haven't played inspiring basketball as of late, so it's understandable that change might be on the horizon. Only most believed the team would be adding pieces around James, not getting rid of him. 

James recently showed his displeasure with the team's performance following a loss by posting an hourglass emoji on social media before later deciding to sit out Thursday's road game against the rival Boston Celtics. 

While many believed he was hinting that moves needed to be made by the Lakers, who knew he meant his time in L.A. might be ticking away? 

All joking aside, a trade still seems unlikely unless James is forcing the Lakers' hand. It's hard to believe he would give up so quickly with this season's group, though. While there might be issues between himself and head coach Darvin Ham, the Lakers have looked like potential contenders this season at times. With James on board, the team is always a threat, but making a few tweaks ahead of the NBA trade deadline on Feb. 8 might go a long way. 

In fact, lately, the word was that Lakers vice president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka was "actively" seeking upgrades. 

If the Lakers do end up trading James, it would be a development that would stun the basketball world. Until then, skepticism is probably the best option. After all, things are looking up for the team after it snapped a two-game skid by knocking off the Celtics, 114-105, without James and big man Anthony Davis. So, maybe moods will improve within the team. 

However, if the Lakers stay inconsistent, chatter about James' future will only get louder. Despite Thursday's victory, they haven't won three games in a row since early December and rank ninth in the West at 25-25, with little wiggle room for error down the stretch.