LeBron James took a pay cut last season to help enhance the Los Angeles Lakers’ roster by improving the team’s cap space. The Lakers acquired Luka Doncic in a blockbuster trade with the Dallas Mavericks, sending Anthony Davis in return. These key moves allowed the Lakers to reach the postseason. Unfortunately, their playoff run ended in the first round against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Following this disappointing outcome, the franchise expected James to take another pay cut this year to free up more cap space. However, James’ agent, Rich Paul, recently announced that James has opted into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season. Amidst these developments, Sam Amick revealed “an uncomfortable truth” about James’ future with the Lakers.
“While the Lakers most certainly care about how James’ final chapter goes, and would love nothing more than to celebrate the 40-year-old’s legendary career all season long before he headed off into the proverbial sunset, any plans that go beyond that point present roster-building problems when it comes to paving a path forward with the 26-year-old Doncic. That’s the uncomfortable truth that was laid bare Sunday,” Amick wrote in his recent reports.
The tone of LeBron James' messaging was such that it’s fair to wonder how his relationship with the Lakers will go from here.
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) June 30, 2025
But one thing is clear — Los Angeles is building around Luka Dončić now.https://t.co/oCuVD3VpMq
James’ decision to contact the Lakers has already made a major stir in the league. Amick’s insights are likely to spark debate among the fans.
NBA Insider Names Key Team To Monitor If LeBron James Considers Leaving Lakers
Fans began questioning LeBron James’ future after an early playoff exit this season. His recent contract decision has fueled trade rumours regarding him. In this context, Jovan Buha noted that the Dallas Mavericks are a team to watch if James decides to request a trade.
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“There has been some buzz I will say in the general NBA ether over the last week or two with LeBron and Dallas… If he does ask out… I would say keep an eye on Dallas,” Buha said.
The Dallas Mavericks are a team to keep an eye on if LeBron James requests a trade, per @jovanbuha
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 30, 2025
(h/t @KevinGraySports / @NationMffl )
pic.twitter.com/YaB7x0iRhg
James averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds in 70 games this season.
Also Read: REPORT: LeBron James Could Be Leaving The Los Angeles Lakers
