As the NBA gears up for another season, LeBron James is set to embark on an unprecedented 23rd season with the Los Angeles Lakers. The 40-year-old superstar, who did not participate in the team’s recent preseason opener due to a nerve irritation in his glute, remains a pivotal figure in the league. With a roster featuring 22 players born in the 2000s, James stands out not only as a veteran but also as a historical icon in basketball.
In a light-hearted moment before the exhibition game, teammates joked about James potentially extending his career, with guard Austin Reaves suggesting he could play for “five or six more seasons.” James responded with a smile, acknowledging his record-setting career. Having scored more regular-season points than any other player in NBA history, with a total of 42,184, James is not only a prolific scorer but also holds records for postseason points and All-Star appearances.
This season marks a significant point in James’ career as he plays under an expiring contract for the first time. He opted into a $52.6 million option for the 2025-26 season in June 2023 but did not negotiate an extension. As he approaches the twilight of his illustrious career, questions loom over whether this will be his final season with the Lakers or if he will seek opportunities elsewhere.
Evaluating the Future for James and the Lakers
The Lakers are coming off a tumultuous season, having traded for 26-year-old superstar Luka Doncic and securing a No. 3 seed in the fiercely competitive Western Conference. However, they were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves. As James recovers from sciatica, the team’s success this season could heavily influence his future decisions.
James’ agent, Rich Paul, has indicated that the four-time NBA champion prioritizes competing for championships. Paul stated, “LeBron wants to compete for a championship… We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career.” This highlights a potential divergence between James’ ambitions and the Lakers’ long-term plans.
With the possibility of James completing this season and retiring, he could solidify his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever grace the court. The Lakers’ president of basketball operations, Rob Pelinka, expressed a desire for James to retire as a Laker, stating, “We would love if LeBron’s story would be, he retired a Laker.”
Possible Scenarios for the Season Ahead
As the season unfolds, several scenarios could define James’ future. One possibility is that he plays out the 2025-26 season and then retires, especially if he can achieve personal milestones, such as playing alongside his son, Bronny James, who was drafted by the Lakers in 2024. This would fulfill a long-standing dream for James, who has expressed a desire to share the court with his son.
Alternatively, James could sign a new deal with the Lakers, given that the team is projected to have approximately $50 million in cap space during the summer of 2026. If he were to pursue a maximum contract, he could be eligible for a three-year deal worth $188 million. Both Doncic and Reaves are eager to continue their partnership with James, recognizing his critical role in their championship aspirations.
On the other hand, if the Lakers struggle this season due to injuries or poor performance, a trade or buyout could be on the table. James holds a no-trade clause, meaning any potential move would require his approval. However, viable destinations may be limited, as teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers and Dallas Mavericks would face salary cap restrictions.
Lastly, leaving the Lakers to sign with another team as a free agent remains an option, although it would be a significant life change for James and his family, who have deep roots in Southern California.
As the 2025-26 season progresses, the basketball world will be watching closely to see how James navigates this pivotal chapter. He remains focused on the present, stating, “I don’t know when the end is, but I know it’s not as long [away as] ‘The Godfather 2.’ So I know I got to stay present.”
LeBron James’ 23rd season could either lead to a historic conclusion or a bridge to even more basketball, making it one of the most anticipated seasons in recent memory.
