LeBron James is reportedly leaning toward opting into his massive $52.6 million player option with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025–26 NBA season, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Speaking on The Pat McAfee Show, Charania revealed that James is “likely” to pick up the final year of his deal, though the official deadline for that decision is June 29.
“I’m told he’s likely to opt in… He’s got a massive player option. That’s the plan, but there are going to be some hard conversations between him and the Lakers. Whether he plays one more season or a few more seasons, he wants to be in a competitive environment.”
The magnitude of the player option alone is a strong incentive; $52.6 million would be the largest single-season payout of LeBron’s storied career.
However, for James, who has always balanced personal ambition with legacy-driven choices, the financial component is only part of the picture. His desire to remain in a championship-contending setting will weigh heavily on the decision.
After the Lakers’ early postseason exit, there were questions about whether James would return for another year or explore free agency to potentially join another contender, or even reunite with Bryce James, who is heading to Arizona and will likely declare for the 2026 NBA Draft.
That timeline makes it increasingly likely that LeBron will opt in and use the upcoming season as a final hurrah or a bridge year while reassessing his long-term future.
There’s also a poetic allure if the 2025–26 season turns out to be his swan song: it would mark Year 23 in the league for No. 23, with All-Star Weekend set to take place in Los Angeles. Symbolically, it sets the stage for a potential storybook ending in front of Lakers fans.
Even at 40 years old, LeBron continues to defy the limitations of age. In his 22nd NBA season, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game on 51.3% shooting, and was rewarded with his 21st All-NBA selection, making him the oldest player in league history to receive the honor.
His performance helped the Lakers to a 50-32 record, third-best in the Western Conference, and cemented his continued elite status.
Still, if James is going to spend another season in purple and gold, the Lakers have work to do. General Manager Rob Pelinka has already made it clear that adding a reliable, top-tier center is the team’s top priority this summer.
The failed trade for Mark Williams at the deadline looms large, and the Lakers are expected to pursue other frontcourt options such as Jarrett Allen, Nic Claxton, or Daniel Gafford. Upgrading wing depth and perimeter shooting are also on the checklist.
LeBron’s reported decision to opt in provides the Lakers with clarity and flexibility. Whether it’s the beginning of a farewell tour or a stepping stone to a longer extension, it marks another chapter in an extraordinary career that shows no signs of slowing. For now, all signs point to one more season in Los Angeles, one more run at glory for the King.
