There`s a possibility that LeBron James might choose to opt out of his current contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. Multiple elements are likely influencing this decision. The 40-year-old star is currently on a two-year deal worth $104 million, which includes a player option for the 2025-26 season. The deadline to exercise this $52.6 million option is Sunday, and reports indicate that even people close to the four-time NBA champion are uncertain about his intentions.
James maintained high efficiency this past season, performing as one of the NBA`s premier players, with averages of 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game. However, since securing a championship with the Lakers at the conclusion of the 2019-20 season in the `bubble`, James has faced first-round playoff eliminations in three of his subsequent four postseason appearances.
James has two primary options: he can accept the player option to remain with the Lakers under his current terms, or he can opt out. Choosing to opt out would make him a free agent, allowing him to potentially sign a longer-term contract with Los Angeles or join a different team. While the situation is being discussed, James still has time, as the deadline for his player option isn`t until June 29th.
1. Retirement or Continuing to Play
According to Rich Paul, his client`s long-time representative, he currently has `no idea` what LeBron James` next career step will be. However, Paul suggested that physical health is unlikely to be the deciding factor. James did sustain a minor knee issue earlier this month during the Lakers` final playoff game and is currently recovering. Given he will turn 41 midway through the next season, James stated after the team`s playoff elimination by Minnesota that he planned to consult with his family and inner circle before finalizing his plans for the 2025-26 season. The family aspect is significant; James has already played alongside his son, Bronny James, with the Lakers. His younger son, Bryce James, will be eligible for the NBA draft after the upcoming season.
2. Confidence in the Lakers` Ability to Win
Executing a major trade, such as the theoretical Luka Dončić-for-Anthony Davis deal mentioned, indicates the team`s front office is aware that James will not be the primary star indefinitely. Los Angeles appears to be structuring its future around a new cornerstone player, who could potentially enter free agency in 2026 if a substantial contract extension isn`t agreed upon this offseason. Currently, the proposed Lakers lineup for next season featuring James and Doncic includes Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Jaxson Hayes. While this group seems capable of reaching the playoffs, it might not pose a significant threat to top Western Conference contenders like Minnesota or Oklahoma City.
3. Potential Impact of `Frosty` Relationship in L.A.
The Lakers` struggle for interior presence was evident in their playoff series defeat against the Timberwolves. Following this loss, James subtly criticized the Lakers` coaching staff, particularly first-year coach JJ Redick, for the absence of a center in the crucial Game 5. Jaxson Hayes had started the preceding four games at center but was not utilized in the final game. This resulted in the Lakers being dominated in the paint, notably by Rudy Gobert`s imposing 27-point, 24-rebound performance.
“No comment,” James said. “I never say that, but my guy (Anthony Davis) said what he needed and he was gone the following week. I got no comment. I put that uniform on every night, give everything I have and that`s all that matters.”
Reports of James` skepticism regarding some of the franchise`s operational choices are widely known and appear to be increasing.
“It hasn`t always been the warmest [relationship] over the past couple years,” The Athletic`s Jovan Buha commented on a recent podcast, adding that he wouldn`t be surprised if James departed Los Angeles.
4. A Potential Return to the Eastern Conference, Perhaps Cleveland?
While considered somewhat of a long shot for a top Eastern Conference team, there`s a possibility James could return to Cleveland, where he previously made a celebrated homecoming, to conclude his career. In his prior periods with the Cavaliers and during his notable time in Miami, James consistently excelled in the Eastern Conference playoffs and frequently reached the NBA Finals. If the primary goal for the upcoming season is competing for a championship, the Cavaliers could provide this chance, although likely involving a reduced salary and uncertain outcomes.
5. The Diminishing Possibility of a LeBron-Steph Curry Pairing
Given James` history of joining forces with other star players, it`s conceivable he might consider playing alongside Steph Curry with the Golden State Warriors. They recently teamed up to win a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics and played together in the All-Star Game. However, realizing this hypothetical pairing remains unlikely. The Warriors reportedly tried to acquire the four-time NBA champion before last year`s trade deadline, but James apparently informed the Lakers he preferred to stay. Furthermore, salary cap limitations and the need for James to accept a lower salary present significant obstacles.
Jasper Hawthorne