LeBron James is running it back with the Lakers. The four-time NBA champion will exercise his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul confirmed to ESPN.
“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Paul said. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all.”
The move puts to rest months of speculation about what kind of deal James would pursue. Last offseason, he floated a pay cut to help the team chase stars like Klay Thompson, who eventually signed with Dallas. This time, James went nearly max, a decision that tightens the Lakers’ already strained cap space.
“We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future,” Paul explained. “He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive, and want what’s best for him.”
This choice limits L.A.’s spending flexibility, especially with second-apron restrictions already looming. While some wondered if James would take less in exchange for future player options, he’s now locked in without one for 2026-27.
James is entering his eighth season with the Lakers, his longest stint with any team without interruption. Despite nearing 41, he’s not ready to call it his last ride. According to ESPN, he’s not operating as though this is his final year.
For now, the Lakers must build a title-worthy squad around James and midseason acquisition Luka Dončić, threading the needle between present and future.
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