ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, a longtime LeBron observer, recently stated that after conversations with league sources, he can no longer “responsibly say there’s no chance” the Lakers could move on from the four-time MVP.

James, who exercised his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, is entering his 23rd year in the NBA. Notably, this is the first time in his career that he will play on an expiring contract without substantive extension talks with his team.

Windhorst explained that while he previously dismissed the idea of a trade, the lack of contract discussions and the Lakers’ shifting priorities have changed the landscape: “The Lakers are essentially viewing LeBron as an expiring contract. That might sound like a toss-off statement, but that's not insignificant.”

Lakers’ Roster Moves and LeBron’s Uncertain Future

The Lakers’ recent roster decisions have also contributed to the uncertainty. According to Windhorst, LeBron was “not in on” the Lakers’ plans to acquire Luka Dončić from the Dallas Mavericks and was reportedly “shocked” by the trade of Anthony Davis as part of that deal.

The acquisition of Dončić marks a clear shift in the franchise’s focus, signaling a move away from building solely around LeBron as the team’s centerpiece.

James’ agent, Rich Paul, has indicated that LeBron will be closely monitoring the Lakers’ offseason moves to determine whether the organization is committed to fielding a title-contending roster. If the Lakers do not meet those expectations, speculation is mounting that James could consider forcing a trade to pursue his fifth championship elsewhere.

LeBron’s Control and the Road Ahead

LeBron’s contract includes a full no-trade clause, giving him significant control over his future and any potential destination. While a trade remains unlikely and would still be a massive surprise, the tone around the Lakers has shifted.

Windhorst summarized the situation: “One thing I feel pretty good about today, although things can pivot, is LeBron's time with the Lakers is beginning to come to an end. They are beginning to move apart.”

As the Lakers pivot toward a new era and LeBron weighs his options, the possibility of a blockbuster move—once unimaginable—can no longer be dismissed. The NBA world will be watching closely as the situation develops throughout the 2025-26 season.