LeBron James’ Current Performance
LeBron James, who will soon celebrate his 41st birthday on December 30, is now averaging 16.1 points, 7.6 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game. He had been sidelined early in the season due to sciatica but looks to be adjusting back into play.
Trade Speculation and Future with the Lakers
As the NBA gears up for the 2025-26 season, the trade deadline is approaching in 58 days. However, James’ agent, Rich Paul, has made it clear that speculation regarding the star’s departure from the Los Angeles Lakers is unfounded. In a recent episode of the Game Over podcast hosted by Max Kellerman, Paul emphatically stated that LeBron will remain with the Lakers for the entire season.
Kellerman posed the question of whether there was any possibility that the upcoming Hall of Famer would leave LA, to which Paul responded, “No. Where’s he gonna go? Does LeBron make the Knicks better? Yes, he would, but 29 other teams would say the same thing.”
Paul emphasized that James holds a no-trade clause, meaning any trade scenarios would need James’ consent. In June, the four-time MVP opted into a $52.6 million contract option for this season but faces a potential free agency next summer if he decides to keep playing without re-signing or retiring beforehand.
Championship Potential and Future Trajectory
Despite the Lakers starting strong this season with a record of 17-6, Paul’s assessment of their championship potential is less optimistic. He expressed doubts about their ability to compete at the highest level, stating,
“I don’t think they have enough to get to the Western Conference Final.”
thereby raising questions about the franchise’s future trajectory. He previously articulated during James’ contract decision that the Lakers needed to provide a realistic opportunity for championship contention, highlighting the expectations that surround a player of James’ caliber in the twilight of his storied career.
