LeBron James is enjoying his Lakers offseason in a distinctive way, highlighted by a July 22 gathering in Cannes, France. At La Guérite, a high-end beachfront restaurant, a video went viral showing James dancing energetically to Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us,” joined by his wife, Savannah, business partner Maverick Carter, as well as billionaire Jeff Bezos and his wife Lauren Sanchez.

This moment came amid increasing speculation about James’ future with the Los Angeles Lakers and was seen by some as a spirited response to rapper Drake’s recent diss track, “What Did I Miss,” which some interpreted as a jab at the Lakers star.

LeBron James’ Agent Signals Demand for Championship-Ready Roster

Following James’ decision to opt into the $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, opinions on his commitment quickly shifted. His agent, Rich Paul, released a clear statement underscoring James’ desire to compete for a title while showing appreciation for the Lakers organization.

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 are very appreciative of the partnership that we’ve had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.

Paul’s message placed emphasis on the Lakers’ need to strengthen their roster during the offseason to maximize their championship chances and suggested that James is weighing all options carefully at this point in his career.

We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future,

he added.

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.

Lakers Positioned as Serious NBA Title Contenders

Despite the surrounding uncertainty, the Lakers remain a serious threat heading into the 2025-26 NBA season. Their offseason acquisitions of DeAndre Ayton, Jake LaRavia, and Marcus Smart have notably improved the team’s defensive strength, fueling high expectations.

ESPNBet currently ranks the Lakers with +1600 odds to claim the 2026 NBA championship, placing them sixth among contenders and tied with the Clippers. They trail only the Thunder, Cavaliers, Nuggets, Knicks, and Rockets.

New addition Marcus Smart, who declined other offers to join Los Angeles, expressed confidence in the Lakers’ potential to capture the Larry O’Brien Trophy.

I think we stack right up there with the best of them,

Smart told ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.

We can [compete]. Our ceiling is high. There’s no ceiling. If we all lock in and come and do what we’re supposed to do, we can have a real good shot at it.

Smart also revealed a personal motivation to help restore the Lakers’ competitiveness after experiencing setbacks over the last two seasons.

The last two years for me was, in my eyes, a disappointment. Injuries kind of stopped me and held me back. But, like I told my wife and my family, everything happens for a reason. And it’s funny that 12 years ago, I could have been here and now it’s full circle and I’m here.

Offseason Moves and Player Outlook Signal Lakers’ Ambitious Future

LeBron James’ collaboration with Jeff Bezos during this offseason event symbolizes more than celebration—it reflects the blend of star power and influence surrounding the Lakers in a critical rebuilding phase. While James’ agent highlights the importance of assembling a competitive squad, the team’s recent moves aim to deliver a roster capable of fighting for the championship.

As the Lakers prepare for the new season, all eyes will be on how they leverage their veteran leadership, including James and Smart, alongside the new contributors, to realize their title aspirations and satisfy the high expectations of fans and stakeholders.