Is LeBron James retiring after the 2025-26 NBA season?

According to reports, multiple sources within the NBA believe that LeBron James is gearing up to announce his retirement after the 2025-26 season, his 23rd in the league.

Why did the Los Angeles Lakers not offer LeBron James a contract extension?

The Lakers did not offer James an extension because his agent, Rich Paul, confirmed that they did not request one, stating that it was "not a point of tension" between the two parties.

Where could LeBron James play after the 2025-26 season?

While trade rumors have linked James to the Cleveland Cavaliers and Dallas Mavericks, those reports have been debunked, and it appears he may be preparing to retire rather than sign with another team.

Home / Sports / LeBron James Contemplates Retirement After 2025-26 NBA Season

LeBron James Contemplates Retirement After 2025-26 NBA Season

19 Jul

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Summary

LeBron James opts into $52.6 million player option for 2025-26 season
Lakers did not offer James a contract extension, sparking retirement rumors
NBA world bracing for James to announce his retirement after 2025-26 season

LeBron James Contemplates Retirement After 2025-26 NBA Season

As LeBron James enters his 23rd NBA season, speculation over his future has intensified. The 40-year-old basketball legend recently opted into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, a move that has raised eyebrows. This marks the first time during his tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers that James did not sign a multi-year extension when given the opportunity.

This uncertainty has sparked rumors that James' time in Los Angeles could be nearing an end. However, the Lakers have denied any discussions about a buyout or trade, and James' agent, Rich Paul, has confirmed that the lack of an extension was not a point of tension.

Despite the Lakers' stance, the NBA world is bracing for the possibility that James may not sign a new contract with the team after the 2025-26 season. ESPN's Dave McMenamin and ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel have both reported that retirement is on the horizon for the basketball icon, and he may be gearing up to announce his plans to retire following the upcoming season.

If this proves to be the case, James' 23rd season could serve as a farewell tour, as he looks to chase one final championship alongside rising star Luka Doncic to cap off an iconic career.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.