LeBron James remains with the Lakers and uses his player option. The NBA superstar wants to continue fighting for titles.
Decision made on LeBron James! The Los Angeles Lakers superstar has decided to exercise his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season. This was confirmed by his agent Rich Paul to ESPN.
The NBA star wants to “compete for a championship” in the upcoming season and possibly beyond, Paul told ESPN. He will be closely watching the Lakers’ offseason moves.
The franchise has its eye on the future, but James sees “a realistic chance to win it all.”
James’ Future with the Lakers
The 40-year-old is entering his 23rd NBA season – whether there will be more is still unclear.
James is only 50 games away from breaking Robert Parish’s record for the most career games in the regular season.
Next season, he will single-handedly hold the record for the most seasons played in NBA history, which he currently shares with Vince Carter.
The family also plays a crucial role in James’ future. Last summer, the Lakers drafted James’ eldest son, Bronny James, with the 55th pick, creating a historic father-son duo.
In July 2024, James signed a two-year, $104 million contract extension.
James is a four-time NBA champion, four-time Finals MVP, and four-time league MVP. He has been named to the All-Star Team 21 times and the All-NBA Team 21 times, including becoming the first 40-year-old to be named to the All-NBA Team.
Lakers acquire Doncic
Since joining the Lakers in 2018, he led the franchise to the 2020 NBA title and the 2023 Western Conference Finals.
Last season, James averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game. In the first-round playoff loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves, he averaged 25.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.8 blocks in 40.8 minutes per game.
He formed a superstar duo with Luka Doncic, who was acquired from the Dallas Mavericks in a shocking trade during the season.