As always, LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers found themselves at the center of the NBA rumor mill this summer, although after months of trade speculation, it seems clear that James will spend his 23rd season in Los Angeles.
But what about after that?
James is coming off his 21st All-Star season, having averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists. While Luka Doncic may have passed him as the face of the Lakers’ franchise, James is still an elite player. Father Time could catch up with him at any moment, although, for now, he is playing at a high level and even into his 40s, retirement seems like a distant possibility.
GettyDALLAS, TEXAS – APRIL 09: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on against the Dallas Mavericks during the fourth quarter at American Airlines Center on April 09, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
James’ Most Likely Landing Spots Have Been Revealed
After the 2025-26 season, James will be an unrestricted free agent. The Lakers, assuming they re-sign Austin Reaves to $30 or $35 million per year, will still have plenty of cash to throw James’ way, although a max deal from Los Angeles seems far-fetched, even if every player and team option is declined.
Any competitive team, however, is in a similar boat to the Lakers, and committing well over $50 million to a player who will turn 42 halfway through that contract simply doesn’t seem likely.
According to a panel of ESPN experts and writers, seven of the 20 surveyed think James will re-sign with the Lakers, more than any other option. Five think he will retire after this season, and four think he will end his career where it started, with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Between Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Maxi Kleber’s impending free agencies, the Lakers can offer James a reasonable deal, although finding 3-and-D wings to surround Reaves and Doncic might be more appealing than retaining James; although, it remains the most likely scenario.
GettyCLEVELAND, OHIO – OCTOBER 30: Bronny James #9 and LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers warms up prior to the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on October 30, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
Key Issue Will Stop LeBron James’ Homecoming
While a part of James certainly wants to end his career alongside Bronny James and his younger son, Bryce, if possible, he should know that the Lakers are unlikely to invest two roster spots in his children, especially as Doncic opens a title window.
Family ties won’t keep James in town. The possibility of winning, as well as money and fame, might.
The Cavaliers boast the largest payroll of any team in the league heading into the season, and have an additional $12 million committed for the following season. In short, the Lakers can offer more money and a bigger role.
Of course, the Lakers and Cavaliers could pull off a sign-and-trade in the summer of 2026, and De’Andre Hunter would thrive next to Doncic. However, he is valuable to the Cavs, who shouldn’t be eager to replace him.
For James, his “storybook ending” should no longer be returning to Cleveland. It should be winning a final ring alongside Doncic as a key player.
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