Despite LeBron James picking up his $52.6 million player option to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers for next season, there's never been more speculation surrounding his status with the team. That's in part because no new contract was negotiated this summer to keep him there past this upcoming season,

The Lakers aren’t trading LeBron James, but they may be done building around him. Marc Stein’s report hints at a quiet exit plan.

The era of LeBron James with the Lakers might be nearing its end. With his $52.6 million contract set to expire after the 2025-26 season, reports suggest the team is ready to look towards a future with Luka Doncic as their new face.