Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is all set to return to the team after opting into his $52.6 million player option.
The decision will allow LeBron James to return to the NBA for a record-23rd season and his eighth overall with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Considering the LA Lakers are heading towards building around Luka Doncic, James’ decision certainly comes as a surprise.
James’ agent, Rich Paul, confirmed that LeBron understands the Lakers’ vision, but at this moment, he cannot commit to a long-term deal.
Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty ImagesLeBron James’ uncertainty with LA Lakers leads to Miami Heat fans dreaming of a return
While James has been a dominant player throughout his NBA career, he was arguably at the peak of his career during his four-year stint with the Miami Heat.
James’ Heat stint suffered a bitter ending, but even then, the franchise’s fanbase loves the prospect of potentially re-signing him if the King is searching for a move away from the Lakers.
Breaking: Los Angeles Lakers’ LeBron James is opting into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul told ESPN.
Paul adds: LeBron “knows the Lakers are building for the future … but he values a realistic chance of winning it all.” pic.twitter.com/q5mT1O2R35
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 29, 2025
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“Hey LeBron, the East isn’t as strong as the West, and Miami is a nice place,” a fan wrote. While another added: “LeBron wants to win? Come to Miami, GOAT.”
“LeBron, come back to the East and close out in that Miami #6,” a third fan added.
“I would do just about anything to have LeBron back in Miami,” a fourth fan announced.
“LeBron gives Miami more of what they need than KD would have,” a fan made Kevin Durant point.
Even at 40 years old, James remains one of the best players in the league, and the Heat would still benefit from the future Hall of Famer.
Pat Riley hinted at signing LeBron James
After parting ways with Jimmy Butler, the Heat barely managed to reach the 2025 NBA Playoffs. However, the franchise was sent home in the opening round.
Evidently, this was a disappointing run, and Heat president Pat Riley spoke about what the team could do to get better in the offseason. Among those suggestions was signing a player like James.
“Players, like LeBron and others, that have played into their mid to late thirties and produced at a high level can help teams win championships. I’m not against [adding] that,” Riley stated.
Considering James is in the final year of his contract with the Lakers, the Heat could patiently wait until the summer of 2026 and take a shot at signing the 4x NBA MVP.
However, the picture will be clear once fans see how James plays for the Lakers this season and if the front office can put together a roster to compete for an NBA Championship.