In his 23rd NBA season, LeBron James has chosen to exercise his player option for the 2025–2026 campaign. Even though he is expected to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers, trade rumours are circulating.

LeBron James has accepted his player option. This ensures his presence next season. Trade speculations link him to Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors. He has control over any move. Lakers may focus on younger players.

NBA free agency officially kicked off on Monday evening as the negotiating window opened for eligible players and all teams across the league at 6 p.m. ET. Monday night was relatively quiet, but the first stunners of the new league year came Tuesday morning.