The union between LeBron James and the Lakers has been a long and prosperous one, but with no contract for next season and retirement questions swirling, what happens next is a mystery.
LeBron will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, and he can either retire as a Laker, go to another team, or return to LA for another season.
Retirement will be entirely up to LeBron, and so far, he hasn’t decided whether that’s the route he wants to take. If James wants to play for other teams, he will most certainly
find a franchise that will take him. The Cavs, for example, would reportedly “gladly welcome” LeBron back.
When it comes to the Lakers, his desire to return is clear. LA has been his home for eight years, and his son plays for the team. If the Lakers make the right trades this summer, it could be the best place for him to pursue his fifth title.
The question is, do the Lakers want him back?
In a recent article, Dave McMenamin of ESPN stated that the franchise would welcome James back next season if that’s what he desires.
If James wants to play a 24th season, he would be welcomed back in L.A., sources told ESPN.
Pelinka declared before the start of this season that he would love it if James retired a Laker, and, sources told ESPN, that sentiment was meant to reflect a 2026 retirement or a 2027 retirement, if James intends to extend his career.
While rumors swirl, the Lakers have consistently said they’d welcome LeBron back if that’s what he wants.
Lakers President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka said he would “love” to have LeBron retire in LA, so James can don a purple and gold uniform next season if he desires. NBA insiders have also speculated that if LeBron plays next year, it’s likely to be with the Lakers.
LeBron is in a rare position where he truly has all the options available and can pick whichever one is best for him. The Lakers are known for treating their stars right and making an effort to ensure things end on good terms.
LA signed Kobe Bryant to a two-year, $48.5-million contract extension back in the summer of 2013 when few thought that was the right financial decision. However, it mattered to the franchise that Bryant remain in LA and also for him to be the highest-paid player.
While LeBron’s scenario is different, it is similar. James is a legend in his own right, helped LA win a championship and has been the face of the franchise during most of his tenure.
Whether his career concludes this season, next season, or in a couple of years, the Lakers ideally want it to be a happy ending. And, if LeBron wants one more dance in LA, the Lakers will happily oblige.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.
