Overview

• The Lakers say James is limited by right-side sciatica and will be reevaluated in three to four weeks, which is expected to keep him out for opening night.
• People close to James describe the end of his career as unknown, and he said at media day that the finish is sooner than later.
• Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves want to keep playing with James but have not asked about his plans out of respect, according to ESPN reporting.
• James opted into $52.6 million for 2025-26 and is on an expiring deal, with no extension pursued as his camp emphasizes evaluating the best path to contend.
• Team planning reflects Dončić as the long-term focal point, with league buzz touting him as an MVP candidate and front-office trade calculus linked to clarity on James’ future.