Overview

• James exercised his $52.6 million player option for 2025-26 without negotiating an extension, making him an expiring asset next summer.
• Agent Rich Paul confirmed that James never requested a contract extension and has not asked to be traded.
• Four teams have formally reached out to Paul to express interest in acquiring the 40-year-old superstar.
• James would need to waive his no-trade clause to approve any deal, preserving his control over a potential move.
• He declined to address the rumors during an ESPN Summer League broadcast, maintaining silence on his long-term future.