LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers are reaching a “moment of truth” in their relationship this offseason, according to Shams Charania of ESPN.
“LeBron James understands the Lakers are prioritizing the future…that really centers around Luka Doncic. And, he knows, they’re going to go younger at different points. They are really prioritizing two-year contracts,” said Charania.
James picked up his $52.6 million player option over the weekend. James and Rich Paul are reportedly supportive of the Lakers building around Doncic’s timeline.
On Monday, the Lakers lost Dorian Finney-Smith to the Rockets and signed Jake LaRavia to a two-year deal.
The Lakers are looking to maintain max salary space in 2027 where they could potentially sign Giannis Antetokounmpo or Nikola Jokic, who will be free agents that offseason if they don’t extend before then.
Charania added that James is evaluating his options as he looks to compete for championships as his career winds down.
“LeBron James is closely evaluating essentially how this goes with the Lakers and where he would want his career to be as he winds down. Whether he has one year left, two years left, or three years left. What we’re seeing now is essentially a moment of truth between LeBron James and the Lakers,” said Charania.
Charania adds that the Lakers are looking for a center and wing depth in free agency. The Lakers have been linked with Deandre Ayton.