ESPN Reporter Shares Blunt Take on LeBron James' Future originally appeared on Athlon Sports. LeBron James is entering a different phase of his career as he approaches a record 23rd NBA season in 2025-26 -- one where he is no longer the center of attention, not just in the league, but on his own team.

LeBron James will be staying with the Los Angeles Lakers after picking up his $52.6 million player option for next season. This is not a surprising development for many reasons, one of which may be just how difficult it would be to trade the 40-year-old superstar even if that was a desired option.

LeBron is the master of offseason passive-aggressive statements to get his team to spend. This is more of the same.