Rob Pelinka is making it clear that the Lakers are leaving LeBron James’ future entirely in his hands. Speaking at a press conference, the team’s GM praised LeBron for opting in this summer, emphasized the franchise’s commitment to surrounding him with the right pieces, and said the Lakers hope James ultimately retires in Los Angeles.
“The first thing we want to do in terms of LeBron and his future is give him absolute respect to choose his story with his family in terms of how many years he’s going to play,” said Pelinka. “He’s earned that right, and he’s the best one to talk about that. We were very intentional this summer about the voices we add once LeBron opted in, making sure LeBron had the necessary pieces around him to be a competitive team. We built into that and for that.”
LeBron, 40, is on an expiring contract this season that will make him an unrestricted free agent in 2026. While retirement is a viable option for LeBron, he’s projected to continue playing, and the Lakers would be happy to keep him, in the right conditions.
“In terms of the future, the first things first would be for him to make the decisions he wants to,” Pelinka added. “We’re going to continue to honor and respect that and let him speak into that. We would love it if LeBron’s story were to retire as a Laker. That would be a positive story.”
In the aftermath of the Luka Doncic trade, the situation has changed in Los Angeles. No longer does the team circulate around No. 23 and his wishes. Instead, it’s all about uplifting Doncic and equipping him to be the leader the Lakers need.
This summer, after feeling betrayed by the Mavericks, Doncic was inspired to get into shape and improve his leadership on the court. The results have been impressive so far, with his Slovenian teammates lauding his progress at EuroBasket.
Luka’s spotlight has put LeBron in a weird position. For a guy used to being catered to all his life, it’s a strange feeling to suddenly not be the most important player on the team anymore. Now, James is no longer the focal point, and it’s part of the reason why the Lakers have refused to concede on his desire for a new extension.
So while LeBron James may be a four-time champion and four-time NBA MVP, his current standing has never been lower in the NBA, and his future has never been more uncertain. Whether it’s his last season with the Lakers or not, James could play for several more years to live out his dream of playing with his sons, Bryce and Bronny. Or he could decide to call it quits after a historic career in the NBA. Either way, it’s his call to make, and it won’t be an easy one.
For now, the Lakers are walking a fine line between honoring LeBron’s legacy and building around their new centerpiece in Luka Doncic. Pelinka’s message was clear: James has earned the right to write his own ending, but it will be on the Lakers’ terms as well. Whether he chooses to finish his career in purple and gold or test the waters elsewhere, the franchise is preparing for both outcomes.
