Marc Stein reveals Lakers’ ‘preferred scenario’ for LeBron James

It appears that LeBron James will be a member of the Los Angeles Lakers for the immediate future, despite the trade rumors that have surrounded him over the last few weeks. He decided to exercise the player option on his contract for this coming season on June 29, and on that day, his agent, Rich Paul, issued a statement that many interpreted as a prelude to a possible trade request.

What he will do once the 2025-26 season ends, however, is anyone’s best guess. He could leave the Lakers, or he could possibly continue to play for them. At the same time, there is speculation that the franchise wants to move on from him.

NBA insider Marc Stein wrote on his substack “The Stein Line” that the Lakers’ “preferred scenario” is to simply let James walk at the end of this coming season.