LeBron James Confirms Return to Lakers with $52.6 Million Player Option
LeBron James has opted into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 NBA season, continuing his legacy with the Lakers.
Overview
- LeBron James has opted into a $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers.
- The decision marks his 23rd season in the NBA, emphasizing his commitment to the team.
- James is a 4-time NBA champion, 4-time league MVP, and has been selected as an All-Star 21 times.
- In the 2024-25 season, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game.
- This move reinforces his ongoing legacy as one of the top players in NBA history.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources present LeBron James' decision to stay with the Lakers as a significant and positive development, emphasizing his achievements and financial commitment. The framing suggests admiration for his career while subtly reinforcing his status as a key figure in the NBA, reflecting a blend of respect and expectation.
He is the NBA’s all-time leader in points scored and could pass Robert Parish for most games played next season.
The Buss family is selling a majority stake in the Lakers, with Jeanie Buss remaining as governor.
Articles (3)
Center (1)
"…LeBron James is exercising his $52.6 million player option to return for a record-setting 23rd NBA season and eighth with the Los Angeles Lakers."
Deadline·2d·FAQ
LeBron James has opted into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers, meaning he will remain with the team for that season instead of entering free agency.
In the 2024-25 season, LeBron James averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game over 70 games, maintaining an All-NBA level of performance.
LeBron James' decision to pick up his player option reinforces his commitment to the Lakers as he approaches the final stages of his NBA career, aiming to compete for championships and monitor the team's offseason moves closely.
LeBron James' continued presence alongside new key players like Luka Doncic enhances the Lakers' chances of contending for an NBA championship in the 2025-26 season.
The Lakers made a significant trade acquiring Luka Doncic, sending Anthony Davis to the Mavericks, which changed the team's dynamics and contributed to moderate success last season. LeBron is watching how the Lakers build on this to assemble a championship-contending roster.
History
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