LeBron James heads into what could be the final chapter of a historic NBA career with plenty of questions still unanswered, primarily whether or not he will remain with the Los Angeles Lakers.
James' former Miami Heat teammate and three-time NBA champion Udonis Haslem spoke on Friday about his future with the Lakers and if James could end up elsewhere before he calls it quits.
"He could definitely end it elsewhere. If this is his last go-around, I think he wants to be comfortable, he wants to enjoy it, he wants to put himself in a situation, most importantly, to win a championship," Haslem said via SportsCenter.
"That was the big thing for him this summer; looking at what moves they were going to make, the pieces, the center situation, which is huge for unlocking him and Luka, who can get to the rim, catch those lobs, vertical spacing, open up everything. If he can put himself in that situation in another organization, I think he will explore that."
At 40 years old, the Lakers’ superstar opted into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025‑26 season, ensuring he remains in Los Angeles for at least one more year.
Over 23 seasons, James has redefined longevity, becoming the NBA’s all‑time leading scorer, a four‑time MVP, four‑time Finals MVP and four‑time NBA champion, while earning 21 All‑Star nods and 13 first‑team All‑NBA selections.
Despite that resume, trade and retirement rumors have swirled all summer.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23)
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James' former Miami Heat teammate and three-time NBA champion Udonis Haslem says he could end his career elsewhere.
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
An earlier report in June noted that four teams quietly inquired about a possible deal, though no formal discussions ever materialized.
More recently, images of James at the Cavaliers’ practice facility reignited speculation about a potential Cleveland return, only for James to clarify on social media that it was merely part of his offseason regimen.
His agent, Rich Paul, has stressed LeBron’s focus remains squarely on contending for another championship, closely monitoring how the Lakers shore up their roster around him.
If he stays in L.A., the Lakers must deliver a roster capable of competing for a title right away. If he leaves, it will mark one of the most seismic moves in NBA history.