Incessant rumors hoped to stir the pot between LeBron James and the Lakers. Would the two sides split after eight years? Could Luka Doncic take the reins sooner than later? New reporting has put any speculation to rest, and it appears James won’t take his talents elsewhere anytime soon.
Report: Lakers Confirm Obvious LeBron James Decision
The Athletic: James to Stick with the Lakers Next Season
Sources told The Athletic’s Dan Woike, Joe Vardon and Sam Amick that James will remain with the Lakers for the 2025-26 season.
“Those same sources said the Lakers have received no indication from James or his representatives that he would request a trade or ask to be bought out of the final year of his contract, which will be his eighth season with the Lakers, the longest consecutive stretch spent with one organization in his career.”
There were little, if any signs, that LeBron wanted out of LA, a city where he’s continued to raise his family; be teammates with his son, Bronny; manage a multitude of business ventures; and—as of late—build a “forever home” in Beverly Hills.
James picked up his $52.6 million player option with little fanfare: no social media post from him nor an announcement from the Lakers. One of the only things that came from the transaction was a statement by his agent, Rich Paul, which included the cryptic line: “We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career.”
According to many fans—and some rival front offices—the “best” decision for LeBron included a potential departure from the purple and gold. The Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors, LA Clippers and Cleveland Cavaliers reportedly contacted Paul about trading for LeBron. While the Lakers could have shaken the sports world once more by trading an NBA legend and future Hall-of-Famer, they chose to stay sane and ride into next season with both James and Doncic at the helm.
Pressure on the Lakers Remains High
Just as it’s been for the last eight years, Rob Pelinka and Co. will be under immense pressure to deliver a championship contender. With LeBron entering his age-41 season and having a new co-star in Doncic, the stakes are higher than ever.
While the Lakers made solid improvements in the offseason—namely at center and on the wing—the job’s not finished. The Lakers still have the expiring contracts of Rui Hachimura ($18.5 million), Gabe Vincent ($11.5 million) and Maxi Kleber ($11 million) available to move, not to mention the previously-traded Dalton Knecht and a 2031 first-round pick. Though the Lakers ended negotiations for Heat wing Andrew Wiggins, there are other avenues toward improvement. As some insiders believe, the current roster could undergo changes before training camp begins, with the team looking to add another perimeter defender.
Every transaction is scrutinized with LeBron on the roster, and that won’t change heading into this season. The Lakers may have filled positions of need, but many say it’s not enough. Although they can count on rotational players making significant strides, the team remains a trade or two away from separating themselves in a crowded Western Conference. It’s a reality the Lakers should realize now instead of at the trade deadline. With pressure growing by the day, all eyes will be on the Lakers front office to go all-in for the twilight of James’ career.
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