LeBron James has not yet announced his plans for the 2025-26 NBA season. If he holds off on retirement, it sounds like there's a decent chance he'll leave the Los Angeles Lakers.
Even in the late stages of his career, James is averaging 21.7 points, 7.0 assists and 5.7 rebounds per game. There'll be a market for the 41-year-old if he wants to keep playing, make no mistake about it.
So where could the four-time NBA champion end up next season? According to Bleacher Report's Eric Pincus, the Cleveland Cavaliers could consider a reunion with James if he's interested in suiting up for his hometown team again.
Pincus also mentioned the Golden State Warriors and New York Knicks as suitors for the future Hall of Famer.
"Other teams in similar situations that are thought to appeal to James are the Golden State Warriors and the New York Knicks," Pincus wrote. "The Cavaliers and Knicks are among the Eastern Conference contenders. The Golden State Warriors have struggled to stay healthy, but the Steph Curry/James combination would be something to see."
Jan 30, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward/guard Luka Doncic (77) talks with Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) against the Washington Wizards during the second half at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-Imagn Images © Brad Mills-Imagn Images.
Who would the Lakers replace LeBron with?
Sam Amick of The Athletic reported this month that Los Angeles is planning an "all-out pursuit" of Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo. ESPN's Dave McMenamin reported similar about "The Greek Freak" and the Lakers.
"A Western Conference executive told ESPN he believes Antetokounmpo is the "big prize" the Lakers hope to land, should the Milwaukee Bucks decide to trade the 2021 NBA Finals MVP in the offseason," McMenamin wrote. "But Antetokounmpo is no guarantee to be traded, despite how the saga has played out with the Bucks and their longtime superstar so far."
The idea of pairing Antetokounmpo with Luka Doncic is awfully intriguing. Will the Lakers actually pull it off though? Only time will tell.
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