Alongside Anthony Davis traded to Dallas, James will now create a new All-Star duo alongside Dončić, keeping L.A.’s championship ambitions alive.
LeBron James is not going anywhere. As Lakers supporters contemplate the seismic transaction that sent Luka Dončić to Los Angeles, they can take heart in one thing: James does not want to depart before Thursday’s trade deadline.
Despite the Los Angeles Lakers’ decision to trade Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a first-round pick to the Dallas Mavericks for Dončić, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris, the four-time NBA champion plans to stay put, according to several reports. While the deal ushers in a new era for the Lakers, LeBron will remain a part of it—for the time being.
James, who signed a two-year, $104 million contract last summer, has a player option for the 2025-26 season and a full no-trade provision, which means the Lakers cannot trade him without his agreement. Despite the organization’s shift toward a post-LeBron future, the 40-year-old star appears firmly committed to his seventh season in Los Angeles.
James has been the subject of previous trade rumors. Last year, the Golden State Warriors reportedly expressed interest in acquiring him, but LeBron stayed steadfast in his commitment to Los Angeles. During the 2024 All-Star Weekend, he put it plainly:
“I am a Laker, and I have been extremely happy to be a Laker for the past six years, and I hope it continues.
That sentiment has not changed. As the Lakers transition into the Dončić era, James will have the opportunity to build another All-Star tandem and lead a club with championship hopes. His next stop? On February 16, 2025, he will become the first player in history to be named an All-Star starter for 21 consecutive seasons.
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