Apr 30, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) moves to the basket against Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) during the first half in game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images / Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Despite LeBron James picking up his $52.6 million player option to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers for next season, there's never been more speculation surrounding his status with the team. That's in part because no new contract was negotiated this summer to keep him there past this upcoming season,

LeBron James may still be producing at an elite level, but the Los Angeles Lakers are already looking ahead. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the franchise is expected to let James’ contract run its course after the 2025–26 season.

These are all questions we won’t have answers to until next year. But as things stand, it surely feels like LeBron and the Lakers are set for their swan song. You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude or on Bluesky at @jacobrude.bsky.social.

Shaquille O'Neal Is 'Still Worried' About the Lakers Despite Having LeBron James, Luka Doncic originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal believes the Los Angeles Lakers have made major moves this offseason.

LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers appear headed for a split at some point in the future. Whether that split comes before or during the 2025-26 NBA season or next offseason in free agency, the end seems to be near.

A stunning NBA trade proposal suggests LeBron James and son Bronny might join the Dallas Mavericks in a three-team deal involving the Lakers and Nets. The Lakers could center their team around Luka Dončić,

T he Lakers have had a decent offseason thus far. Los Angeles added Deandre Ayton on a steep discount, which gives Luka Doncic the kind of pick-and-roll threat he always thrived with in Dallas. Jake LaRavia isn't a particularly home run of a signing,

One member of the Lakers' front office made a comment on LeBron James exercising his player option and how the team feels about it.