LeBron James Expected to Opt Into Lakers $52.6M Option Amid Retirement Rumors

LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar and NBA’s all-time leading scorer, is expected to opt into his $52.6 million player option for the upcoming 2025-26 season, signalling he is not ready to retire despite speculation. Sources and reports confirm that although James has considered retirement every offseason since 2023, he is entering this season without any certainty it will be his last, motivated by the presence of new teammate Luka Doncic and the opportunity to compete for a fifth championship. James has been recovering from a Grade 2 MCL sprain suffered during the playoffs but has resumed training, notably alongside his son Bronny James, marking their first extended offseason together. His performance last season, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game, underscores his continued elite level of play. While he could become a free agent after this season for the first time since 2018, there is no indication he plans to leave the Lakers, where he is likely to finish his career. Off the court, James has hinted at pursuing a post-NBA acting career, leveraging his past experience hosting 'Saturday Night Live' and starring in 'Space Jam: A New Legacy.'