The Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly extended an olive branch to All-Star forward LeBron James and would welcome him back for season No. 24.
“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.”
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James is in the final year of his current deal, making $52.6 million, and will be an unrestricted free agent this summer. The Lakers’ future could hinge on what happens with James this summer because it’s hard to see the four-time NBA champion and MVP taking a major pay cut.
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Wherever James plays next, it could be the final chapter (or two) in his storied NBA career. There have been rumors circulating that James could end his career where it began in Cleveland.
Lakers team governor Jeanie Buss was recently asked about James’ future in purple and gold while speaking with Alex Sherman of CNBC and gave her take on the situation.
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“Never say never, but you know, he certainly hasn’t given an indication,” Buss explained. “He’s earned the right to decide how his career will go, and you know, he continues to impress.”
In Year 23 (his 8th in Los Angeles), James is averaging 22 points, 7.1 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game. While James’ numbers are down in many statistical categories across the board, he was an All-Star for the 22nd time this season, and the Lakers are currently sitting in fifth place in the Western Conference at 33-21.