Speculation over LeBron James’ future has intensified as he enters his 23rd NBA season. The 40-year-old opted into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, marking the first time during his Los Angeles Lakers tenure that he didn’t sign a multi-year extension when faced with the ability to do so.

"Sources say the Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks and New York Knicks are among the teams waiting for such an end to the James-Lakers relationship," Irwin wrote. Irwin added that James had to let the Lakers know about his desire to leave right away before the new CBA's constraints prevent any of these teams from getting him.