LeBron James has chosen to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025–26 season by exercising his $52.6 million player option. While the decision confirms his return on paper, it hasn’t ruled out the possibility of him exploring other opportunities. The four-time NBA champion, now heading into his 22nd season and turning 41 next year, remains one of the league’s biggest names—but signs suggest his relationship with the Lakers may be shaky.
Lakers insider Jovan Buha noted the silence from the team after James opted in, calling it unusual for a player of his stature. “There’s been no official statement,” he said on his podcast, Buha’s Block, hinting at possible tension between James and the front office.
Adding to the speculation, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul—James’ longtime agent—told ESPN that his client will be keeping a close eye on the team’s offseason decisions. He stressed that James is watching to see if the Lakers are serious about building a roster that can contend for a championship.
Veteran NBA reporter Brian Windhorst, who has followed James’ career for over 20 years, initially saw no chance of a trade. But after recent conversations, he admitted he could no longer rule it out. His shift came just months after the Lakers pulled off a surprise trade involving Luka Doncic in February, only to be knocked out of the playoffs early in April.
James recently worked out at the Cavaliers’ facility, which fueled speculation of a return to his former team. He later responded on social media, calling the chatter overblown. “Y’all bored man,” he posted.
With no official comment from the Lakers and the team’s offseason strategy still taking shape, James’ future in Los Angeles remains a topic of serious interest.
