Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James is set to play in his 23rd NBA season after picking up his $52.6 million player option for 2025-26.

However, the question is whether he’ll be with the Purple and Gold franchise or with another team.

James’ future with the Lakers has been in doubt ever since his friend and agent, Rich Paul, stated that the 40-year-old forward “wants to compete for a championship” and “values a realistic chance of winning it all.”

Following that statement, the four-time NBA MVP has been linked with a number of teams as trade rumors heat up. The Golden State Warriors, Cleveland Cavaliers and Dallas Mavericks have been mentioned as potential destinations

— especially since all three teams could offer James the opportunity to contend for a title.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James has found himself in several trade rumors as of late.

According to the latest report from Dave McMenamin of ESPN, though, James hasn’t asked for a trade away from the Lakers. It also doesn’t look like his camp has any plans to do so in the near future.

“[Rich] Paul has also made it clear to me that LeBron has not asked for a trade, and Paul hasn’t even discussed the possibility of wanting a trade in the future with the Lakers,” McMenamin stated while reporting ahead of the Lakers’ Summer League game against the New Orleans Pelicans.

McMenamin did share that Paul said “four teams contacted him with interest in trading for LeBron.” Those four teams, however, were not named.

James averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists and 1.0 steal in 70 regular season games in 2024-25, so clearly, he has plenty left in the tank to contribute to a team.

The Lakers, for their part, added Deandre Ayton in free agency to address their need for a big man since giving up Anthony Davis in the trade for Luka Doncic. They also added Jake LaRavia for extra depth and brought back Jaxson Hayes, though they have yet to make other moves to significantly improve the roster around James.