The Los Angeles Lakers agreed to a contract extension with Luka Doncic that locks him as the face of the franchise and only further clouds LeBron James’ future. King James opted into the final year of his contract this offseason and was reportedly not offered an extension. LeBron is still a Laker, but his time with the franchise is running short.
Luka is clearly the face of the Lakers. He is tasked with recruiting talent and being the best player. Doncic has transformed his body and is eager to win a championship. LeBron certainly helps in that goal. He was second-team All-NBA in 2025, but how much longer can the 40-year-old do it?
Everyone assumed James would finish his career with the Lakers, but Luka’s arrival changed things. Now, the franchise is being built around the younger star. LA is not in a rush to keep King James around. The 2025-26 season may be LeBron’s last in purple and gold, and that fact only got more likely as Luka extended his contract.
LeBron James leaving the Lakers just got more likely
The Lakers have a unique opportunity next summer. Even with Luka locked in, they have significant cap space. Austin Reaves will decline his player option and have a low cap hold. Rob Pelinka and the front office could bring a new star to Hollywood and re-sign Reaves. This could be the Lakers' shot at quickly vaulting into title contention with Doncic as the head of the snake.
Where does LeBron fit into that plan? Is he willing to take a pay cut to stay in Los Angeles? If not, James may be searching for a new franchise or retiring. LeBron likely wants a retirement tour for his final season, and there have been zero rumblings about that announcement. If James wants to play, the Lakers may force him to go elsewhere.
Several teams are projected to have cap space next summer. LeBron will be one of the hottest free agents on the market, especially if he has another All-NBA season. Multiple teams will be lining up to make a run at the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.
The Lakers are getting out of the LeBron business to focus on building around Doncic. Luka is 14 years younger and a top-four player in the world right now. It is a wise move. LeBron is unhappy about it, but Father Time is undefeated. With James approaching his 41st birthday, the Lakers must plan for a future without him. It is the nature of sports.
The Los Angeles Lakers extended Luka Doncic and are ready to compete immediately. Expect LeBron James to remain on the team this season unless he requests a trade. After this year, all bets are off. If the Lakers can find an upgrade, do not be surprised to see King James wearing a different uniform for the 2026-27 season. Fans will be upset, but all will be forgotten if the Lakers are winning. With Luka leading the way, their chances are strong.