The Los Angeles Lakers secured their future with Luka Donsic’s blockbuster trade. Despite the Lakers’ star power, LeBron James may be in a troublesome place in the move.
As arguably the most popular NBA team, the Los Angeles Lakers are always finding ways to succeed. The latest example of this would be to land the hit Luka Donsic in February 2025. They got a 26-year-old superstar to take them into the future, which helped them secure a long-term future.
That’s a promising move, especially as they combine Donsic with LeBron James. Unfortunately, James is in his 40s and could lead to leaving the Lakers after the 2025-26 season.
The Lakers treat Donsic as their focus, but that could be a problem for them to move forward. That might mean going out of the exit given that James is no longer in the focus.
James was spectacular as he grew older, but his father’s time remains undefeated. The Lakers will look to a future where Don Sic is the central figure rather than James. That’s a departure from the past seven years, but it’s necessary for the long term future.
This offseason, the Lakers signed Deandre Ayton and made a significant move by adding Jake Laravia and wing depth. Despite the potential impact, the most important goal for the Lakers front office is to ensure Don Sic’s long-term commitment.
With Doncic potentially leaving as a free agent in the 2026 offseason, it is important to establish consultations for a contract extension. Slovenian security guards can win important contracts that could reach up to $406 million.
With this focus, it may not be the best situation for James’ future with the Lakers. His agent, Rich Paul, has already detailed his decision to opt in in late July 2025. So James is in a volatile position in the 2026 offseason.
“It’s up to him to see if the 2025-26 season will be James’ final season in the NBA. But if only the Lakers wanted a Hollywood ending where the legend of the game could be given, then the release date has been set.”
“Spring 2026. Luka Donsic Inn, LeBron James Out. The Lakers will, of course, celebrate Kobe Bryant’s way of doing things on their 2016 retirement tour if James is finally decided.”
Despite James’ reputation and legacy, Donsic is a logical choice to build. At just 26, Doncic has more possibilities. His game doesn’t require elite athleticism, so he will play for a long time.
James is an ageless player, but throwing away his huge salary could open up so many possibilities for the Lakers. They’ll be more interesting if the 2025-26 season was his final season with the Lakers and the NBA.
They will draw more players into Los Angeles and be drawn to play for their team. At the same time, they build a team with Donsic in mind as the center. They don’t need James anymore. This will be a sad day for fans.