After weeks of speculation, LeBron James has reportedly made his decision: he’s expected to opt in to the final year of his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, locking in a $52.6 million salary for the 2025–26 season, per an ESPN report.
The move brings clarity to a franchise that’s been teetering between transition and opportunity. James, who turns 41 in December, battled through a knee injury late in the playoffs but has already returned to training alongside his son Bronny, marking the first real offseason the two have shared as teammates.
Despite whispers of retirement, sources close to the four-time champion told ESPN he’s not entering next season with any sense of finality.
For the Lakers, James’ decision gives them short-term stability but a limited financial toolbox. With his massive salary on the books, L.A.’s only spending flexibility in free agency comes through the taxpayer midlevel exception, worth just $5.7 million. That figure limits their ability to add major talent unless the team sheds other contracts or gets creative with trades.
For the Lakers, James’ decision gives them short-term stability but a limited financial toolbox. With his massive salary on the books, L.A.’s only spending flexibility in free agency comes through the taxpayer midlevel exception, worth just $5.7 million. That figure limits their ability to add major talent unless the team sheds other contracts or gets creative with trades.
Still, James’ commitment signals that the team isn’t rebuilding. Not yet.
Alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, the Lakers have a core with title aspirations—though that trio’s fit remains imperfect, particularly on the defensive end.
Behind the scenes, the Lakers are exploring trade options for a new starting center, having rescinded a trade for Mark Williams (the Lakers alleged Williams had health issues) at the deadline and having seen Jaxson Hayes lose his spot in the playoffs. Names like Walker Kessler, Onyeka Okongwu, and Nic Claxton are reportedly on the radar.
And while a new era is quietly forming, with new ownership under billionaire Mark Walter and head coach JJ Redick heading into Year 2, James’ presence continues to anchor the franchise. He may be in the twilight of his career, but his decision to return ensures that the Lakers remain in win-now mode for at least one more year.
The window isn’t wide open, but it’s not shut yet either.
