LOS ANGELES — LeBron James has opted into the final year of his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, but that hasn’t silenced speculation about his future — or the possibility of a blockbuster trade before the 2025-26 NBA season tips off.
The four-time NBA champion and his longtime agent Rich Paul appear to be in a “wait and see” mode with the Lakers, according to multiple reports, as the organization prepares for a pivotal offseason. While James is currently under contract, no new extension talks have been publicly reported, leaving the door open for potential movement.
According to odds released by SportsBetting.ag, the Dallas Mavericks (5/2) and Cleveland Cavaliers (4/1) are considered the most likely destinations if James is traded. The Golden State Warriors (5/1), New York Knicks (6/1), and San Antonio Spurs (8/1) are also among the frontrunners.
The Los Angeles Clippers — the Lakers’ crosstown rivals — are listed at 10/1 odds, suggesting a long-shot but intriguing possibility of James staying in L.A. while switching uniforms.
James, 40, is entering his 23rd NBA season. He averaged 25.7 points, 8.3 assists and 7.3 rebounds per game last season, continuing to defy his age with All-Star level production.
While the Lakers remain hopeful to build a contending roster around James and Luka Doncic, the team has not yet made a major move in free agency. The uncertainty has fueled speculation that James could be on the move.
Trade rumors remain just that — rumors — but in an offseason filled with star movement and speculation, James once again finds himself at the center of the NBA universe.