Though LeBron James averaged an impressive 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists in Year 22, surely cementing his place as, at least, an All-NBA Second-team selection, it is no secret his time in the league is nearing its end. With the 2025-26 season approaching, the four-time MVP holds all the cards thanks to a player option that gives him the freedom to decide his next move.
So, as speculations remain open whether he will opt for a poetic farewell with the Cleveland Cavaliers (a franchise where it all began) or make a blockbuster move to another championship contender, Shannon Sharpe is confident that “The King” has absolutely no reason to part ways with the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Purple and Gold’s priority heading into this offseason will be locking Luka Doncic down to a long-term deal. That development could potentially cause LeBron to retire and adjust his contract expectations. Yet, even with that in mind, his on-court presence, production, and acumen are still at an elite level, which can help any team elevate its championship ceiling. So, naturally, the door and exit remain ajar.
Still, Sharpe emphasized the example of Shaquille O’Neal to highlight why “The Akron Hammer” will follow in the footsteps of other all-time Laker greats to stay put, especially this late in his career.
At this stage, expecting LeBron to shift his playing style entirely and adapt to an unfamiliar roster and system would be a tall – and unarguably unfair ask. The 21-time All-Star already has deep chemistry with the Lakers’ supporting cast, including Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves, and understands the dynamics of the locker room.
Furthermore, with “The Don” gaining more time to adapt to coach JJ Redick’s coaching system, LeBron, who has openly expressed his willingness to take a backseat in recent years, might finally feel comfortable handing over the reins.
Most importantly, the only reason LBJ is competing so hard even this late in his career is to add more glory to his already-stellar resume, and what better way than to chase another title alongside Luka? As one would know, being a billionaire already, money shouldn’t be an issue for the four-time NBA champion to make a move elsewhere, especially when each of his moves, even at this stage of his career, attains the most eyeballs and opinions and mostly gets unwarranted scrutiny.
