LeBron James’ future with the Los Angeles Lakers remains one of the biggest storylines heading into the 2025–26 season.
The four-time MVP picked up his $52.6 million player option but chose not to lock into a longer deal, fueling speculation about whether his time in L.A. could be winding down.
Lakers president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka made it clear on Saturday that he would like to see James end his career in purple and gold.
“All the interactions we’ve had with LeBron and his camp, Rich Paul in particular, have been very positive and supportive,” Pelinka said when asked if he expected James to finish his career with the Lakers. “Very professional and Rich has been great. The dialogue with him has been open and constant.
“In terms of LeBron’s career, I think the No. 1 thing we have to do there is respect he and his family’s decision in terms of how long he’s going to play. I think that’s first and foremost. We want to respect his ability to come up with his timetable and that’s really important. If he had the chance to retire as a Laker, that would be great.”
Lakers President Rob Pelinka on LeBron James retiring as a Laker: “All the interactions we’ve had with LeBron and his camp, Rich Paul in particular, have been very positive and supportive.”
“If he had the chance to retire as a Laker, that would be great.” pic.twitter.com/YXHTNDUX1G
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) August 2, 2025
Paul, however, reminded everyone where James’ priorities stand at this stage of his career not long ago.
“LeBron wants to compete for a championship” and “values a realistic chance of winning it all,” Paul told ESPN. “We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive and want what’s best for him.”
While James holds a no-trade clause, reports have already linked possible interest from the Mavericks, Warriors, Knicks and even the Cavaliers if the Lakers fall short this season.
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