LeBron James: Is the King in the final stretch?
In the Lakers’ locker room, LeBron James’ presence is unmistakable. His golden uniform with the number 23 and a triangular cushion on his seat are the only visible signs of his presence, at least at the beginning of the preseason. At 40 years old, James did not participate in the first preseason game due to nerve irritation in his glute, according to coach JJ Redick.When James finally appeared, wearing a t-shirt with the phrase “Forever King” from his latest advertising campaign with Nike, the question about his season number 23 resonated in the atmosphere. Before he could answer, Austin Reaves intervened, suggesting that he had five more seasons left. James, with a smile, responded with a question: “Why not six or seven, to reach 30?”
James’s career in the NBA is legendary. He is the only player who has remained for 23 seasons, accumulating impressive records:- Most regular season points (42,184).
- Most postseason points (8,289).
- Most All-Star Game appearances (21).
The Lakers, who will have James for the next three to four weeks due to sciatica on his right side, are coming off a season in which they finished third in the competitive Western Conference. However, they fell to the Timberwolves in five games. After James chose to stay in Los Angeles, his agent, Rich Paul, issued a statement suggesting the possibility that James could end his career elsewhere.“I don’t know,” James replied. “I’m excited to have the opportunity to play the game I love for another season. And whatever path this year takes, I’m all in. Because, as you said, I don’t know when the end will be, but I know it’s a lot sooner than later.”
LeBron James
Here’s a look at the possible paths this unprecedented season could take for James and the Lakers.“LeBron wants to compete for a championship. He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic opportunity to win it all… We want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage of his life and career.”
Rich Paul
LeBron’s Future Scenarios
1. Retire as a Laker after the 2025-26 season:James’ tenure with the Lakers has been marked by injuries, missing 124 games in seven seasons. Despite this, there have been notable successes, including the 2020 championship, where James was the Finals MVP with three different teams. The team also honored James when he surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer in 2023. The Lakers’ president of basketball operations, Rob Pelinka, has expressed his desire for James to retire as a Laker. Some signs point to this scenario, including Nike’s “Forever King” campaign and the choice of the Cleveland Cavaliers’ “Classic Edition” uniform for this season, the same one James wore when he debuted in the league.2. Renew with the Lakers with a new contract:
The Lakers could have around $50 million in cap space, which could go towards a new maximum contract for James. He could sign a contract of up to three years for $188 million. Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, teammates, want this partnership to continue. However, there is a question about how James’ timeline fits with that of other key players on the team.3. Request a transfer or terminate your contract in January or February 2026:If the Lakers struggle, James could seek an exit, prioritizing victory. However, the no-trade clause in his contract limits options. Teams like the Cavaliers, Warriors, and Mavericks could be possible destinations, although with certain financial and roster restrictions.4. Signing with another team as a free agent:
In the summer of 2026, several teams will have available salary space. However, changing locations could be complicated due to James’ personal life and the presence of his children in California. Furthermore, he would face significant competition from other star players in the free agent market. Uncertainty surrounds LeBron James’ future. “Nobody really knows,” said a source close to James. For now, James prefers to stay in the present.
