Will LeBron James Actually Stay With the Los Angeles Lakers?

So, after 22 seasons, 21 All-Star appearances, four MVP awards, and four titles (with three different teams), LeBron James has decided to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers.

…or did he?  

As of this early-July writing, James has opted in (at $52.6 million) to the final season of his contract with LA, which is priced at 16-1 (+1600) to win it all in 2025-26, according to NBA championship futures odds. Whether that guarantees he begins 25-’26 as a Laker remains to be seen. 

There’s been some discussion that James’ decision signaled dissatisfaction in next-contract negotiations with the team, provided the 40-year-old was indeed going after a next contract. There was also a school of thought James opted into to request a trade (he just as easily could’ve become a free agent).

As a refresher, the third-seeded Los Angeles Lakers were eliminated (five games) by the No. 6 Minnesota Timberwolves in the opening round of the 2025 NBA playoffs.  

It’s two seasons in a row that LA was dusted in the first round of the postseason, thrice in James’ seven seasons in SoCal. 

James has been remarkably consistent throughout his career. LeBron James’ stats include averages of 27 points, 7½ rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game. He’s been on the floor nearly 38 minutes per game and made more than half of his shots. That’s a good way to accumulate more than 42,000 points.

Here’s a bit of a primer on James and where he might get his mail next season…

Where Will LeBron James Play Next Season?

While the Lakers are minuscule 1-10 (-1000) choices to retain the services of LeBron James, there is certainly sufficient intrigue surrounding where he plays next season, if not an eighth season with the Purple and Gold. Looking at the BetUS board, what would be a third stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers is the 2-1 (+200) favorite. 

Perhaps a reunion with Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving in Dallas is in the cards. James, as a Maverick, is the 5-2 (+250) second choice, while the Golden State Warriors and New York Knicks are both at 5-1 (+500). Also under double figures are a second go-round with the Miami Heat and the San Antonio Spurs, each of those venues at 8-1 (+800). 

Though criticized as a de facto general manager when it comes to both rosters and coaches, he’s never been traded and always completed a contract. 

As was mentioned, James has four rings, winning them in 2012 and ‘13 with the Heat, 2016 in Cleveland, and a ‘bubble title’ in 2020 with the Lakers. He has the distinction of winning NBA Finals MVP on each occasion, the only player to be honored with three different teams.

Does BetUS Offer Constant Updates on NBA Game Betting Lines?

Indeed. There is wagering on individual games, as well as additional props involving teams and players. If you’re a ‘long-term’ investor, there are futures wagers out there in any number of specific categories, including division, conference, and NBA title winners. That last wager is as popular as any involving NBA game odds.

As with other wagers, NBA championship futures odds are fluid, thus subject to change.   

Any Final Thoughts?

Anyone who pays even marginal attention to NBA news and NBA rumors is acutely aware of LeBron James. He’s a Hall-of-Famer in waiting who has everyone around the league waiting to see his (possible) next move.