The Los Angeles Lakers will be a constant media circus with LeBron James in the final year of his contract. This saga only ends if James extends his contract or announces the 2025-26 campaign will be his last. The Lakers reportedly didn’t offer an extension, and LeBron has shown no signs of playing for less money. The speculation about his future with Luka Doncic taking over as the Lakers' superstar will run rampant all season.
Many are predicting this to be LeBron’s final season with the Lakers. James may decide to continue his career, but Los Angeles wants to build a title contender around number 77. That is difficult to do with James in his 40s, making over $50 million per year. The lack of extension talks speaks volumes and only leads to more speculation.
This story will take on new life throughout the season. King James' return to Cleveland on Jan. 28 is certain to bubble up a fresh round of rumors about him rejoining the Cavaliers. Every time the Lakers head to Dallas or Golden State, there will be discussions about LeBron departing to team up with his friends. The circus won’t end and could become a distraction that crushes the team’s title chances.
Uncertainty about LeBron James’ future will be a problem for the Lakers
The questions will start on media day and drag through the team’s final game. LeBron is arguably the greatest player of all time. He has already changed teams four times, and each was a spectacle. From The Decision to him quietly joining the Lakers, James knows how to put on a show. His next move could be his last, so LeBron won’t miss an opportunity to maximize it.
The Lakers have no control over this season. King James has a no-trade clause and just one year left on his contract. He will remain in Los Angeles for the entire season unless he requests a trade. The speculation of that happening will continue until February’s deadline, but that won’t stop this noise. With no extension, it will be all but certain that LeBron leaves in the offseason, and the rumors will be running wild about his next stop.
The Lakers are no strangers to rumors and tabloid talk. Such is the price of being the most popular franchise in the NBA. Add in the league’s biggest star, and this could get out of control. LeBron is one of several players likely in their final season with the franchise. All that uncertainty could ruin this team’s chances.
It will be on head coach JJ Redick and superstar Luka Doncic to keep them together. The LeBron narrative will run wild, but the in-house chemistry can remain strong. Staying together and competing for a title should be the goal, and that shouldn’t change.
The Los Angeles Lakers want to build a title contender around Luka. They are determined to find pieces that fit around him and are willing to completely reset their roster. That will create problems this season, but could make them a title contender for years to come. Fans may just have to ride out the bad times to get to the good.