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Lakers GM Confirms Desire for LeBron to Retire as a Laker
3 Aug
Summary
- Lakers GM Rob Pelinka open to LeBron James retiring with the team
- Luka Doncic signs $165M extension, becomes new face of Lakers franchise
- LeBron's workout at Clippers facility sparks trade speculation
As of August 3rd, 2025, the Los Angeles Lakers are facing uncertainty surrounding the future of their superstar LeBron James. However, Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka has made it clear that the team would love to see James retire as a Laker.
During a press conference last month to announce Luka Doncic's three-year, $165 million contract extension, Pelinka was asked about the rumors surrounding James' future. The Lakers GM confirmed that he has maintained open communication with James' agent, Rich Paul, and stated that the team's priority is to respect James' decision on when he will retire.
"If he had the chance to retire as a Laker, that would be great," Pelinka said, indicating the Lakers' desire to keep the four-time NBA champion with the franchise until the end of his illustrious career.
While James opted into the final year of his contract with the Lakers, he has been linked to potential trades to teams like the Dallas Mavericks and his former club, the Cleveland Cavaliers. Adding to the speculation, a recent photo of James working out at the Los Angeles Clippers' training facility went viral, fueling rumors about him potentially joining the Lakers' crosstown rivals.
Despite the uncertainty around James' future, the Lakers have secured their long-term future by signing Luka Doncic to a lucrative extension. The 24-year-old Slovenian superstar is now the official face of the Lakers franchise, as the team looks to build around him for the years to come.
