At 40, LeBron James is once again at the center of a conversation the NBA world has quietly tried to avoid for years: ‘What comes next?’
Retirement whispers around the Los Angeles Lakers superstar have grown louder in recent weeks after another demanding campaign tested even one of basketball’s most durable athletes.
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However, as speculation intensified, a fresh update on James’ future has surfaced, potentially reshaping how fans view the final chapter of his iconic career in purple and gold.
MORE: Highest NBA career earnings of all-time
According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the Lakers organization is open to bringing LeBron James back next season if he decides he wants to keep playing and return for a 24th NBA season.
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LeBron James
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) in the second quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Right now, LeBron is earning $52.6 million for the 2025 to 2026 season. However, his contract is set to expire this summer, making him an unrestricted free agent. That gives him full control over his future. He can re-sign with the Lakers, join another team, or choose to retire. So, the decision will be entirely his. But there is a catch.
The Lakers would welcome LeBron James back in Los Angeles if he wants to play a 24th season, per @mcten.
James is making $52.6 million this season and is an unrestricted free agent this summer. pic.twitter.com/k3EEk1KAFw
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) February 17, 2026
Amid growing retirement chatter, another intriguing possibility has started to gain traction around the league. There have been increasing rumors that LeBron James could choose to end his legendary career where it all began, with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
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The idea is not as far-fetched as it once seemed. James has long spoken about his deep connection to Cleveland, the franchise that drafted him first overall in 2003 and the city he led to a historic championship in 2016.
With his current deal nearing its end and free agency approaching this summer, speculation is building that a short-term return to the Cavaliers could offer a full-circle ending to one of the greatest careers in NBA history.
LeBron James is currently playing under a two-year, $101 million contract that he signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2024.
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