Overview

• James activated his player option for 2025-26, guaranteeing $52.6 million for his 23rd NBA season.
• The Lakers have insisted they will neither trade nor extend James beyond next year to clear room for a Doncic-led rebuild.
• His no-trade clause and the franchise’s stance have stalled reported trade interest from the Mavericks and Warriors.
• An AI projection predicts James could retire at the end of the upcoming season, reinforcing uncertainty about his post-2026 future.
• In Saint-Tropez this month, James met with Nikola Jokic’s agent, fueling speculation over the Lakers’ cap-space planning after his deal expires.