According to a report from The Athletic on Wednesday, despite ongoing rumors and speculation, LeBron James is expected to continue playing for the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2025-26 season. The report indicates that there have been no discussions about a potential trade or buyout between the Lakers and James, and the NBA’s all-time leading scorer is anticipated to join the team for training camp this fall. There are no indications that James is seeking to leave the Lakers.
Recently, James exercised his option to return to the Lakers for an eighth season, earning $52.6 million. This upcoming season will mark the first time in James’ career that he will be the second option on his team, as Luka Doncic, acquired in a trade from the Dallas Mavericks, is expected to be the focal point for the Lakers.
Speculation about a possible trade or buyout was fueled by a statement from James’ agent, Rich Paul, last month, mentioning the need to assess what is best for James at this stage of his life and career. Due to James’ high salary, trading him could prove challenging, as NBA trades require contracts of similar value to comply with the salary cap.
The Lakers are reported to be hesitant to take on a player earning around $50 million with multiple years left on their contract. However, the team will be free of James’ $52.6 million salary once his current contract expires at the end of the upcoming season.
At 40 years old, James is set to embark on his 23rd NBA season, aiming to break Robert Parish’s record for most games played. He remains a dominant force on the court, ranking among the top players in various statistical categories. With an impressive career resume that includes multiple All-Star appearances, MVP awards, and NBA championships, James has solidified his status as one of the game’s all-time greats since entering the league as the top pick in the 2003 NBA Draft for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
