Despite ongoing rumors about LeBron James potentially being traded, the Los Angeles Lakers star forward is expected to remain with the team as the 2025-26 NBA season approaches. Sources close to the organization and the athlete indicate that James will attend the Lakers’ training camp when it begins this fall, signaling stability despite speculation.
Insights from League Sources and Media Analysts
According to reports from The Athletic’s Dan Woike and Joe Vardon, those familiar with the situation confirm that both the Lakers and individuals close to LeBron James anticipate his continued presence with the team. They emphasize that no requests for trades or contract buyouts have come from James or his representatives.
Amid the constant speculation recently about his future, both the Lakers and people close to the NBA’s all-time leading scorer expect that he will be with the organization for training camp once the season begins this fall.
—League sources
LeBron’s Ambitions as He Prepares for His 23rd NBA Season
LeBron James is entering the 2025-26 season aiming to pursue his fifth NBA championship title. Having exercised his $52.6 million player option to remain with the Lakers, James’ intentions appear focused on competing at the highest level. His agent, Rich Paul, has highlighted LeBron’s desire for the team to maintain a realistic chance at championship contention while also preparing for the future.
LeBron wants to compete for a championship,
Paul told ESPN’s Shams Charania.
He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. … We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive and want what’s best for him.
—Rich Paul, Agent
Trade Rumors Contrasted with Financial and Practical Realities
Rumors have swirled that LeBron might seek a trade to a team offering a better shot at a championship. However, insiders confirm there has been no indication of this from LeBron or his camp. Moreover, any team willing to acquire the 40-year-old star and his substantial salary for next season would face major financial burdens and likely need to give up valuable assets.
The prospect of trading for LeBron at this stage, with retirement looming, seems unlikely. Most franchises are expected to carefully weigh the obstacles associated with absorbing his contract and assessing how it fits into their own long-term plans.
What Staying Means for LeBron and the Lakers Moving Forward
LeBron James’ anticipated participation in the Lakers’ training camp demonstrates a mutual commitment to the current season and beyond. His focus remains on maximizing his remaining playing years while competing at an elite level. For the Lakers, retaining their franchise star is critical as they try to build a competitive team capable of contending for championships in a challenging league.
As the new season draws nearer, all eyes will be on how the Lakers plan their roster and strategy around LeBron’s goals, especially amid ongoing league-wide talks about contracts and player movement involving stars across the NBA.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who unfollowed LeBron James?
A. LeBron emphasizes sleep as his top method for complete body recovery, helping him perform at his best consistently. He mentioned that he sleeps 8 to 9 hours each night. If he misses this amount, he takes naps that can last up to 2.5 hours in the afternoon.
Q. Why did Drake unfollow LeBron James?
A. They might have been correct. James could have upset Drake by going to Kendrick Lamar’s “Pop Out” concert in June. During that time, the ongoing feud between Drake and Lamar had intensified, with both artists releasing rival diss tracks.