LeBron James is starting the 2025-26 season on the sidelines. James is dealing with sciatica on his right side and will miss the start of the regular season. That injury, combined with this being James’ 23rd NBA season, has many speculating and asking the Los Angeles Lakers superstar when retirement will come.
Two players who haven’t talked to James about his plans are Lakers teammates Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Both Doncic and Reaves want to show respect for James’ process as he ramps up for the season and makes decisions on his future. Doncic has been through the retirement process for an NBA legend previously, as he played with Dirk Nowitzki at the end of his run with the Dallas Mavericks. Doncic reportedly found that time with Nowitzki to be invaluable.
James is on an expiring contract that is worth $52.6 million for this season. This is the first time in his career that James is on a truly expiring deal. Every other season, the veteran forward has had additional years on his contract or, at the very least, a player option for the following season.
The expiring deal, combined with comments from agent Rich Paul of Klutch Sports about James prioritizing what’s best for himself and competing for a title, have sparked discussion about his future with the Lakers. Some of speculated that he could ask for a trade or buyout this season, or could leave Los Angeles as a free agent next summer.