The new NBA season is approaching quickly, and a cloud of uncertainty hovers over Los Angeles Lakers fans concerning one of their last great icons: LeBron James.
Will James remain tied to the Lakers next year? For now, that question does not have a clear answer. At least not from Rob Pelinka, the team’s president of basketball operations.
LeBron is entering his 23rd season in the NBA, and it remains unknown whether, at the conclusion of the 2025-26 campaign, he will continue playing or decide it is finally the right moment to end his career. Many analysts believe he still has the competitive hunger and could push for more.
The arrival of Luka Doncic pushes LeBron into a secondary role
Earlier this year, the Lakers acquired Luka Doncic from Dallas, a move that made it evident the franchise’s future would now be built around the young superstar.
Although LeBron himself acknowledged it was an important acquisition both for the organization and for him personally, it also carried certain consequences. James will gradually cease to be the team’s undisputed number one option. And that is understandable. His career is clearly closer to its end than its beginning.
A debate over LeBron James’ future
Journalists Rachel Nichols and Chris Mannix recently discussed LeBron’s uncertain role with the Lakers on the Sports Illustrated’s Open Floor podcast, focusing on Pelinka’s remarks about the veteran star’s future.
Rob was asked directly about LeBron. And Rob’s practiced at this. So he’s given the same kind of answer a few different times.” Nichols explained. “Those answers essentially boil down to the Lakers taking a hands-off approach and allowing LeBron to decide what his future will hold.
She added more context about what ESPN reporter Dave McMenamin attempted to clarify when questioning Pelinka.
If LeBron would like to be on the Lakers roster past this season, would the Lakers like him to be on that roster?
Nichols said.
The inquiry still did not generate a definitive response. Pelinka replied, “We would love it if the story is that LeBron retires as a Laker. That would be a positive story.
Nichols immediately pointed out the difference.
That is a very different thing of ‘Do you want him on the roster?’ I thought that was fascinating, and I’m surprised it didn’t get picked up more. Because he is really not going to commit to anything beyond this year, and that is so new for a LeBron James team.
Her words underscored just how ambiguous Pelinka’s position has been. As the season progresses, the central question remains: will the Lakers continue to give LeBron James the recognition and role he has earned, or will the franchise begin to move forward without him at the forefront?
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