Lakers GM Drops Unexpected Hint: Could LeBron James Really End His Legendary Career in Purple and Gold?

“In terms of LeBron’s career, I think the No. 1 thing we have to do there is respect he and his family’s decision in terms of how long he’s going to play. I think that’s first and foremost. We want to respect his ability to come up with his timetable and that’s really important. If he had the chance to retire as a Laker, that would be great.”

AdvertisementLeBron James’ future with the Los Angeles Lakers beyond the 2025-26 season is uncertain. The four-time NBA MVP picked up his .6 million player option for the upcoming season, but notably did not negotiate a longer-team deal with the team for whom he’s played seven seasons.However, Lakers president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka said it “would be great” if James retired as a Laker. He made the remark during Saturday’s news conference to announce the three-year, 5 million contract extension for Luka Dončić.

However, Lakers president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka said it “would be great” if James retired as a Laker. He made the remark during Saturday’s news conference to announce the three-year, 5 million contract extension for Luka Dončić.

Yet perhaps that stance could change midway through the season if the Mavs felt they were in the championship hunt. Such a scenario may also apply to the Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks and even the Cleveland Cavaliers.Advertisement