LeBron James is still alive, at least for the time being. Rich Paul, the CEO of Klutch Sports, informed ESPN that the NBA's all-time career scoring leader, who is scheduled to play a record 23rd season, has chosen to exercise his $52.6 million player option with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025–26 season. The action, which was made before the deadline, ensures that the 40-year-old will continue to play for at least one more season and that he won't be retiring anytime soon.

James is now keeping an eye on the Lakers' offseason transactions and wants to contend for the title this year, Paul said.

"LeBron wants to compete for a title. He is aware that the Lakers are planning for the future. He knows it, but he prioritizes the possibility of really winning everything. We regard the Lakers as a key component of Rob [Pelinka]'s career, and we appreciate the eight-year collaboration we've had with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka]," Rich Paul told ESPN.

But James is also considering retirement, and his choice is influenced by his wife, Savannah. The 40-year-old will be an unrestricted free agent next summer, which will allow for conversations about his future.

The Lakers' star reportedly told ESPN insider Shams Charania, while out to dinner with his wife Savannah, former teammate Kevin Love, and his wife Kate, that "Savannah wants me to f**king retire in the next year or so."

James's highest single-season salary is the $52.6 million option, which is included in a two-year, $104 million contract that was signed in July 2024. He maintains a no-trade clause and the option to become a free agent in 2026 by choosing to opt in rather than renegotiate a new deal, which allows him leverage in evaluating Los Angeles' roster-building.

This season, LeBron James will be playing with his son Bronny as well. In the interim, rumors indicate that the Lakers are looking for a center to complement James and Doncic in an effort to make up for their playoff defeat, when JJ Redick relied on tiny ball lineups.

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