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yesterday

LeBron James Opts Into Expiring Contract as Trade Interest Grows

His no-trade leverage on the expiring $52.6 million option has prompted rival inquiries as the Lakers front office remains silent on his future.

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers during game four of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on April 27, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.
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Overview

  • James activated his one-year, $52.6 million player option for 2025–26, invoking his no-trade clause and making him an expiring asset.
  • Agent Rich Paul emphasized that James still prioritizes contending for a championship and values a realistic path to a title.
  • Despite contact from four teams—including the Warriors, Mavericks, Cavaliers and Clippers—James has not requested a trade or discussed leaving with the Lakers.
  • The Lakers have offered no contract extension since the sale of a majority stake to Mark Walter, fueling uncertainty about James’s long-term place in Los Angeles.
  • LeBron and teammate Luka Dončić have publicly expressed shared priorities for the franchise even as James’s camp evaluates title opportunities.