Overview

• James opted into his $52.6 million player option for 2025–26 and holds a no-trade clause that gives him full control over any deal.
• On August 1, Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz proposed a four-team trade sending James back to the Cavaliers in exchange for Darius Garland and Max Strus.
• James’ Instagram workout snapshots at the Clippers’ former Inglewood facility have intensified speculation despite no formal trade request.
• Agent Rich Paul has publicly emphasized that any transaction would require James’ approval under his contractual rights.
• With Los Angeles pivoting to a younger core around Dončić, insiders wonder if this will be James’ final season in purple and gold.