The Los Angeles Lakers should be worried if LeBron James accepts his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season because it gives him a clean window to retire. The franchise is known for taking care of their stars. They would gladly give LeBron another 1-plus-1 contract featuring a player option in the summer of 2026. It is a no-brainer for James unless he knows his playing career is over and does not want a near $60 million payday to tempt him into a 24th NBA season.
The Lakers are all-in on winning as King James nears the end of his career. They just traded for Luka Doncic, and fans know he is pissed off after their first-round playoff exit. Luka is already in fantastic shape and ready to lead the Lakers to a championship.
LeBron opting in hurts the franchise no matter how fans slice it. Their finances are limited, given James's massive salary. He has earned even more money, but the Lakers want to contend. LBJ opting in only spells doom for the Lakers in the present and future.
LeBron James may be gearing up for retirement if he opts in on current contract
James has a full no-trade clause and $52.6 million waiting if he opts in before June 29. That is difficult to decline, but LeBron knows the Lakers will do whatever is necessary to keep him happy in LA. They plan on upgrading their roster, including adding a new starting center. If James wants a max contract and a player option for the 2026-27 season, the Lakers will grant it.
The 40-year-old will be the first player in NBA history to play in 23 seasons when he suits up for the 2025-26 campaign. James already owns the record for points scored, minutes played, field goal attempts, and turnovers in a career. He is only building on those numbers. LeBron is the GOAT, and there is nothing left to prove.
Fans should be worried if LeBron opts in. James is not just locking in the money. The Lakers will pay him and keep his no-trade clause if that is what he wants. Those are not even negotiations. The franchise takes care of their stars. Opting in means James is considering retirement at the very least. It makes it more likely than not that the 2025-26 season is LeBron's last.
The Los Angeles Lakers plan for LeBron James to retire with their franchise. They have already handed the keys over to Luka Doncic, but James is still one of the best to ever do it. The Lakers will do whatever possible to take care of him. That is why his player option is such a massive decision. It will give fans insight into what LeBron is thinking and what the Lakers can expect moving forward.
James has until June 29 to decide. Fans should be praying for an opt-out and extension. If not, LeBron could be one year away from the end of his legendary career.
