LeBron James is expected to play just one more season with the Los Angeles Lakers, while his wife, Savannah, wishes for him to retire after the 2025-26 campaign.
LeBron James has decided to opt into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season, staying with the Los Angeles Lakers.
However, at 40 years old, his basketball future is clearly nearing its end, and many believe this upcoming season could be his final one wearing the LA Lakers uniform.
"It's becoming increasingly clear that — even if James doesn't retire next summer — this could be his last season in a Lakers uniform," Sam Amick of The Athletic reported.
Amick added that any plans beyond this season create roster-building challenges, especially when considering the 26-year-old superstar Luka Doncic.
"That's the uncomfortable truth that was laid bare Sunday," Amick wrote.
He also noted that as long as the Lakers secure Doncic's signature on a contract extension—expected when he becomes eligible on August 2—every move going forward will need to focus on the long-term future.
Committing to James at a max salary beyond this season is seen internally as unwise.
If the Lakers want to remain flexible in the coming years and add a new co-star alongside Doncic after James retires, maintaining salary cap flexibility will be crucial.
According to Amick, the Lakers are already keeping an eye on star situations around the league, particularly Giannis Antetokounmpo's uncertain future with the Milwaukee Bucks.
Credit AP – Scanpix
Meanwhile, reports from the weekend revealed that Savannah James, LeBron's wife, wants him to retire after the 2025–26 season.
During a recent dinner in New York City with former teammate Kevin Love, his wife Kate, and other close friends, Savannah expressed her wish for LeBron to hang up his sneakers soon.
One guest shared a clip on Instagram where LeBron can be heard saying, "[Savannah] wants me to f***ing retire in the next year or so."
LeBron will be entering a record-breaking 23rd NBA season. Last year, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game.
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