LeBron James Stays with Lakers for 23rd Season

LeBron James opts into his $52.6 million deal, aiming for another championship with the Lakers in his 23rd season.

LeBron James has officially opted into his $52.6 million player option with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025-26 season, a monumental decision that marks the beginning of his 23rd NBA season. At the age of 40, James continues to defy expectations, averaging an impressive 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists last season. His remarkable achievement of recording 10 triple-doubles at this age places him in elite company as only the second player in NBA history to do so. Furthermore, he etched his name in the record books as the oldest player to score 40 points in a game on two occasions.

James has made it clear that his ambition remains to compete for a championship with the Lakers, who, despite their recent first-round exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves, are building a promising future. As the NBA free agency kicks off, teams are strategizing to enhance their rosters. The Lakers are reportedly in pursuit of a rim-running center to complement the dynamic duo of LeBron James and Luka Doncic.

In the Eastern Conference, the Cleveland Cavaliers stand as favorites with +270 odds after a stellar 64-18 record last season, despite their playoff disappointment against the Indiana Pacers. The New York Knicks follow closely, also at +270, while the Orlando Magic, bolstered by the acquisition of Desmond Bane, sit at +425. For more on the latest NBA news and Eastern Conference odds, stay tuned.

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