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2d ago

Lakers Plan Spring 2026 Exit for LeBron James as Focus Shifts to Luka Doncic

James remains under contract through 2026, has not sought a trade, declining to comment publicly despite growing outside interest.

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Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts to his three-point basket against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second quarter of Game Four of the First Round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center on April 27, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
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Bronny James Jr. #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts after a teammate scored and was fouled on the shot against the Miami Heat during the second half of the 2024 California Classic at Chase Center on July 10, 2024 in San Francisco, California.

Overview

  • The Lakers opted not to offer James a new contract extension this offseason, turning his upcoming season into an expiring asset.
  • James exercised his 2025-26 player option worth $52.6 million, with his agent stating he still aims to compete for a championship.
  • The franchise issued no public statement following his opt-in, a silence that insiders say fueled confusion and heightened behind-the-scenes tension.
  • Although James hasn’t sought a trade and retains a no-trade clause, four NBA teams have reached out to his agent to gauge interest.
  • When approached at the Lakers’ Summer League game, James declined to comment on his future, underscoring his decision to stay tight-lipped.