LeBron James Sends 1-Word Message After Cavaliers Trade Rumors originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James is entering his 23rd NBA season. Exercising his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 campaign, James bypassed the opportunity to become a free agent. That said, his Lakers future is anything but clear.

It would be entirely illogical for the Lakers to buy out James. He was a second-team All-NBA choice in 2024-25. Why would they get rid of him for nothing in return? While trades don't appear to be forthcoming, LeBron's name value plus talent give him legitimate trade value if he ends up requesting a deal.

Like sharks sensing a presence in the water, Rich Paul's cryptic statement that accompanied LeBron James' decision to opt in to his $52.6 million salary for next season led some teams to call the Los Angeles Lakers about the four-time NBA MVP's availability.