LeBron James Expected With Lakers For 2025-26 Training Camp Amid Trade Rumors

LeBron James is expected to report to the Los Angeles Lakers' training camp for the 2025-26 NBA season amid ongoing trade and buyout rumors. Multiple sources, including league insiders and James' representatives, have confirmed no discussions regarding a buyout or trade have taken place between James and the Lakers. While James opted into his $52.6 million contract for the upcoming season, signaling contentment with staying, his agent acknowledged the challenge of competing now while the Lakers build for the future centered around Luka Dončić. The Lakers are prioritizing constructing the team around Dončić, who is expected to sign a significant extension, but James remains a valuable contributor and a contender alongside Dončić. Despite speculation fueled by comments from James' agent, both the Lakers and James appear committed to continuing their partnership at least for this season. This season will mark James' eighth consecutive year with the Lakers, his longest tenure with a single organization, and offers a chance for him and Dončić to lead the team as it balances present competitiveness with future planning.