Los Angeles is experiencing a seismic shift. Luka Doncic‘s blockbuster contract extension cements him as the Lakers’ centerpiece, and in its wake, an NBA legend delivered a blunt message: it may be time for LeBron James to step aside.
The veteran superstar is expected to opt into his 2025-26 deal, but the franchise’s direction feels unmistakably clear.
At 40, LeBron has been the heartbeat of the purple-and-gold since arriving in 2018. His leadership helped deliver the 2020 championship and bolster his legacy as one of the all-time greats.
But as the Lakers pivot around a younger, MVP-caliber star, that era may be winding down.
“LeBron is going to have to move on at some point. I mean, it is what it is,” Charles Barkley said on a recent episode of The Bettor Angle podcast.
“You know, he’s been there, even though he’s been putting up good numbers; they haven’t been successful in probably four years. It’s already probably Luka’s team now. You don’t sign, trade for Luka Doncic, give him all that money, and it’s not his team.”
The Hall of Famer’s words cut directly to the heart of the Lakers‘ delicate transition. LeBron is still producing at a high level, but the franchise’s investment in Doncic has made it clear who will be leading the next era in Los Angeles.
Lakers set course for a new era
Doncic‘s three-year, $165 million extension, finalized earlier this month, made headlines not just for its size but for its symbolism.
He is now the unquestioned cornerstone, and his influence on the Lakers‘ roster moves has been immediate.
Reports indicate Doncic played a role in attracting players like DeAndre Ayton and Marcus Smart, a responsibility once associated with James.
When Doncic celebrated on August 2 to mark the deal, teammates gathered around to show their support.
James was not present at the ceremony, sparking speculation about his role as the team reshapes itself around the younger star.
Despite that, James has quietly reinforced his commitment to the franchise. By exercising his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, he signaled his intent to remain in Los Angeles for at least one more year.
His agent, Rich Paul, explained the decision by emphasizing the balance between James’s priorities and the team’s vision: “[LeBron] wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive and want what’s best for him.”
That partnership underscores the complexity of the moment. James has long expressed a willingness to share the spotlight, and he has publicly supported Doncic’s arrival and the franchise’s long-term strategy.
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