LeBron James, the only NBA player in history to play for a 23rd season, is returning to the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025–2026 campaign after exercising his $52.6 million player option. Despite choosing to participate, there has been conjecture during the offseason that James would not play his final season in Los Angeles, particularly as the team looks to Luka Doncic as its long-term pillar.
Rich Paul, James’ longtime agent and CEO of Klutch Sports, made it plain that his client’s future movements will depend on if the roster still affords him a realistic chance to win another title before the Lakers added new players and locked in Doncic till 2028.
Paul stated that James would always position himself to compete, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania, which sparked rumors that he would leave.
Rich Paul’s Thoughts on the Future of LeBron James
Paul seems to have finally put an end to these allegations amid mounting conjecture. Paul was questioned if James was leaving the Lakers during a recent interview on The TylilShow Live. Paul clarified that there would be no trade, though.
“No. It’s over; the man has a no-trade clause. If he wishes to be traded, that is up to him,” Paul stated. “The player has the right to refuse a trade if they have a no-trade clause and a team wishes to trade them.”
Since this is actually James’ decision, the last portion is crucial. Paul clarified that his client has taken the decision not to trade out of Los Angeles.
James was rumored to be with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors, and even the New York Knicks until Paul’s update. However, his most recent remarks seem to end those discussions.
Paul’s comments also confirm what ESPN’s Dave McMenamin earlier reported: there have been no substantive discussions regarding a possible trade between James and the Lakers.
What Will Happen With LeBron James and the Lakers Next?
As of right now, James has complete control over his future and is committed to the Lakers for the forthcoming season. The Lakers are constructing their next era with James still involved, as Luka Doncic recently agreed to a three-year, $165 million agreement through 2028. In an indication that they are now serious about competing, the team recently added Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton.
James’ tenure in Los Angeles has unquestionably been historic. During his stint with the Lakers, he made several All-NBA teams, led the team to its 17th championship in 2020, and surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA’s all-time top scorer. The two players will likely play together for at least another season now that Doncic has emerged as the team’s new face.
James will decide what happens next. He’ll enter free agency in 2026, and with his no-trade clause intact, his future will stay on his terms.
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