Overview

• ESPN’s poll of 20 coaches, scouts and executives returned no consensus: seven predicted LeBron James stays with the Lakers in 2026–27, five said he retires, four picked the Cavaliers, two the Warriors, and one each the Mavericks and Heat.
• James exercised a $52.6 million player option for 2025–26, keeping him under contract for one more season before unrestricted free agency in 2026.
• Agent Rich Paul told ESPN’s Shams Charania, “It’s important not to worry about the future when it comes to LeBron James, just appreciate the present,” framing this season around maximizing his current situation.
• Charania reported that James will weigh how competitive the Lakers look this season and that Bryce James’ development could factor into his timeline.
• Former Lakers guard Byron Scott said James has not yet earned a statue outside Crypto.com Arena, arguing the honor typically goes to long-tenured, multi-title Lakers and suggesting another championship would strengthen his case.