LeBron and the Lakers: tension cools, for now
The Lakers have received LeBron James’ message — but the four-time champion is still expected to approach the 2025–26 season with full focus, beginning with training camp.
Crisis averted. At least for the moment. LeBron James will be present when the Lakers open camp in September, which means the possibility of an immediate trade has been taken off the table. A few days ago, leaks from James’ camp, which pointedly highlighted his seven-year commitment to the franchise in contrast to Luka Dončić’s emerging role, hinted that the end was near. And in many ways, it still is. The timeline hasn’t unraveled — yet — but both sides are now working with a one-year horizon, possibly shorter, preparing for two outcomes: a trade, or a restructured, lower-value extension.
LeBron and Lakers: no drastic decisions
According to The Athletic’s Dan Woike and Joe Vardon, the temperature around the situation has dropped. Publicly, LeBron has denied any conversations with the Lakers about a prearranged exit or a future trade. He was seen at Summer League in Las Vegas, where he crossed paths with Rob Pelinka, head coach J.J. Redick, Austin Reaves, and other team members — a setting that helped ease tensions within the organization.
James’ presence at training camp is now confirmed, which means no drastic moves are expected before then. In other words, don’t expect any decisions about his future early in the season.
The Lakers have indicated that LeBron’s side hasn’t asked what comes next. By opting into the final year of his contract, James locked in a salary figure the franchise can no longer comfortably carry. That decision effectively places him on an exit path — unless he’s willing to renegotiate for less money.
LeBron James decision early in 2026
The real discussion is expected to come in January or February, as the trade deadline approaches. It would mark the first time in LeBron James’ career that he doesn’t control his own destiny. With the franchise pivoting toward Dončić as its next cornerstone, the Lakers will want to get something in return if James does leave.
There are only two paths left for James, whose current deal runs through the summer of 2026: a buyout or a trade. Both options appear unlikely — unless LeBron agrees to one key condition: his next team must be a title contender. Woike and Vardon cite two examples based on teams that have been linked to James — and the financial gymnastics those deals would require.
- In a hypothetical trade with the Warriors, including Jimmy Butler, Golden State would be locked into a commitment through 2027, with LeBron earning $56.8 million in the final year.
- In a scenario with the Knicks that involves Karl-Anthony Towns, the center’s deal stretches to 2028 — with $118.1 million owed starting next summer.
What does that mean for the Lakers? Even before considering those moves, L.A. is already walking a financial tightrope. LeBron’s refusal to lower his salary demands has left them with little flexibility. Adding another massive contract for a player who may not guarantee a leap forward only complicates things further.
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.