LeBron James is returning to the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025-26 season after exercising his $52.6 million player option—making him the first NBA player in history to play a 23rd season. Even after opting in, speculation has swirled throughout the offseason that James may not finish his career in L.A., especially as the franchise pivots toward Luka Doncic as its long‑term cornerstone.

Prior to the Lakers adding new pieces and locking in Doncic through 2028, James’ long-time agent and CEO of Klutch Sports Rich Paul made clear that future moves for his client will depend on whether the roster still gives him a realistic chance to win another championship. Per ESPN’s Shams Charania, Paul noted that James would always put himself in the best position to compete, which reignited speculation about a possible departure.

Rich Paul Comments on LeBron James’ Future

Amid growing speculation, Paul appears to have put these rumors to bed for good. During a recent appearance on the The TylilShow Live, Paul was asked to confirm if James was leaving the Lakers. However, Paul made it clear there’s no trade coming.

“No. The man has a no-trade clause, end of story. It’s up to him if he wants to get traded,” Paul said. “In the event, when a player has a no-trade clause and a team wants to trade the player, that player has the ability to say no.”

That last part is key, because this is in fact James’ decision. As Paul made clear, his client has decided against a trade out of Los Angeles.

Prior to Paul’s update, rumors linked James to teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors, and even New York Knicks. But his latest comments appear to shut the door on those talks.

Paul’s remarks also back up what ESPN’s Dave McMenamin previously reported: neither James nor the Lakers have discussed a trade, and there have been no meaningful conversations about a potential move.

What’s Next for LeBron James and the Lakers?

As it stands, James is locked in with the Lakers for the upcoming season and retains full control of his future. With Luka Doncic recently signing a three-year, $165 million extension through 2028, the Lakers are building their next era—but they’re doing it with James still in the fold. The team also signed Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton, signaling they’re serious about contending now.

Without a doubt, James’ run in L.A. has been historic. He led the franchise to its 17th title in 2020, passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, and has made multiple All-NBA teams during his Lakers tenure. And with Doncic emerging as the new face of the team, the two stars are set to share the floor for at least one more season.

What happens after that will be up to James. He’ll hit free agency in 2026, and with his no-trade clause intact, his future will remain on his terms.