LeBron James is not going anywhere.
The Los Angeles Lakers star reportedly opted in to a $52.6 million player option for next season, and bypassed the opportunity to enter free agency when it opened Monday.
ESPN’s Shams Charania first reported the news on Sunday hours before James’ decision deadline.
James, 40, enters his record 23rd NBA season this fall. His future, which surpassed the 2025-26 campaign, is currently unknown.
“LeBron wants to compete for the championship,” James’ agent Rich Paul told ESPN. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he cherishes the realistic chance to win it all. We are extremely grateful for the partnership he’s had with (owner Jeannie Bass) and (general manager Rob Perinka) for eight years, and considers the Lakers a key part of his career.
“We now understand the challenges of winning while preparing for the future. We want to assess what is best for LeBron at this stage of his life and career. He wants to create every season that has left every season.
The Lakers entered the free agency trying to improve their roster following the exit of the first round in the 2025 playoffs, losing five games to the Minnesota Timber Wolves.
James is able to trade as he has a contract for next season, but he holds a non-trade clause in the contract. This will give the NBA’s all-time goal scorer full control of his future, depending on how he sees the Lakers’ offseason.
Currently, only three Lakers players are scheduled to compete in the Open Market on Monday. Jackson Hayes, Marquief Morris and Alex Ren. Forward Dorian Finney Smith has a $15.4 million player option that must be decided to accept or fade by 2pm on Sunday.
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