NBA
LeBron James Opts In for $52.6M with Lakers, But Eyes Still on Future Moves
NBA icon LeBron James has officially opted into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, his agents at Klutch Sports confirmed Sunday. But even with the ink dry, the decision leaves fans and insiders speculating about whether LeBron’s Laker loyalty is set in stone—or simply a strategic hold.
The 40-year-old superstar, now heading into an unprecedented 23rd NBA season, remains determined to compete at the highest level. According to Klutch CEO Rich Paul, James is laser-focused on winning another NBA championship, and whether or not that happens with the Lakers depends heavily on how the front office reshapes the roster this offseason. “LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Paul told ESPN. “We are very appreciative of the Lakers, but at this stage, he wants every season to count.”
LeBron James’ commitment comes with a no-trade clause, giving him complete control over his NBA destiny. Still, sources say he is closely monitoring the LA Lakers’ offseason activity, particularly the hunt for a starting center after the team’s early playoff exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Though the Lakers made headlines by drafting Bronny James last year and signing LeBron to a two-year, $104 million extension, the on-court results have lagged behind expectations. With Anthony Davis traded to the Mavericks in early 2025 and head coach JJ Redick experimenting with small-ball lineups, LeBron’s patience appears to be wearing thin.
Adding to the intrigue: a candid Instagram video from a recent New York dinner party, where LeBron James is overheard saying, “[Savannah] wants me to f—ing retire in the next year or so.” Whether it was a joke or a hint at a looming retirement decision, the clip has fueled speculation that LeBron’s legendary run could be nearing its finale.
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Despite battling a knee injury in the playoffs, LeBron James was still elite last season, averaging 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds. He also became the first 40-year-old to make an All-NBA team and now sits just 50 games away from surpassing Robert Parish’s all-time record for regular-season games played.
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His long-standing status as the NBA’s career scoring leader and four-time NBA champion solidifies his legacy, but James has made clear that unfinished business remains. Whether that business concludes in Los Angeles—or somewhere else—depends heavily on how much support the Lakers can surround him with in the coming months.
As James Harden re-signs with the Clippers and other Western Conference rivals get stronger, Lakers GM Rob Pelinka is under pressure to act fast—or risk watching LeBron take his final championship run elsewhere.
