If LeBron James decides to play a 24th NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers, with GM Rob Pelinka, are hoping he retires a Laker in 2026 or 2027.
If LeBron James decides to suit up for a 24th NBA season, a return to the Los Angeles Lakers appears to be very much on the table. According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, the franchise would gladly welcome him back.
LeBron James
LeBron James
LeBron James
MIN: 33.33
PTS: 21.97 (56.4%)
REB: 5.81
AS: 7.06
ST: 1.08
BL: 0.56
TO: 3.08
GM: 36
Before the season began, Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka expressed his hope that LeBron would finish his career in purple and gold.
That stance, per ESPN's reporting, was meant with either a 2026 or 2027 retirement in mind – depending on how long James chooses to continue playing.
Should he opt to return, finances would play a crucial role in shaping the team's roster.
LeBron is earning $52.6 million this season, a figure that significantly affects the Lakers' salary-cap flexibility.
Credit AP - Scanpix
In his most recent contract, James accepted a $2.7 million discount below the maximum salary to help the organization avoid second-apron penalties.
However, agreeing to a substantially larger pay cut this summer would mark a notable shift from the way he has typically handled contract negotiations throughout his career, per ESPN.
Even in his Year 23, LeBron remains highly productive. The 41-year-old recently made his record 22nd appearance in the NBA All-Star Game and is averaging 22.0 points per game while shooting 50.2% from the field, along with 7.1 assists and 5.8 rebounds.
Eearlier ESPN reported that ex-Lakers majority owner Jeanie Buss grew frustrated with LeBron years ago over his ego, Klutch Sports' influence, the Russell Westbrook trade, Bronny's draft, and even considered not extending or trading him to the LA Clippers.
Thank you for being with us! Subscribe to BN+ and browse ad-free.
If you like our content, please click here and add us as your preferred source. It helps us a lot, and we are committed to delivering you the very latest basketball news.