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4w ago

LeBron James Opts In for 2025–26 as Yacht Meeting Intensifies 2026 Departure Rumors

Rich Paul confirms James’s focus on another championship, with the Lakers laying groundwork for a cap-flexible rebuild targeting future stars

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers walks across the court in the first quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on March 29, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers holds the ball during the second half against the Houston Rockets at Crypto.com Arena on March 31, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the third 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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Overview

  • James exercised his $52.6 million player option to lock in the 2025–26 season and position himself for unrestricted free agency in 2026 if he doesn’t retire.
  • Agent Rich Paul says LeBron remains intent on competing for at least one more title and will evaluate his best team fit at this career stage.
  • A Saint Tropez yacht meeting with Miško Ražnatović, Nikola Jokic’s agent, and Maverick Carter has fueled rumors that James could explore joining Denver or reuniting with Anthony Davis in Dallas in 2026.
  • Insiders including Marc Stein and David Dennis Jr. expect James to leave the Lakers after next season, though no destination is confirmed.
  • Lakers executives are preparing a post-LeBron blueprint that preserves cap flexibility and draft assets for the 2026–27 offseason to pursue stars such as Giannis Antetokounmpo or Nikola Jokic.