LeBron James has the option to leave the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason. By June 29, he must decide on his $51.4 million player option, but he might decline it to negotiate a new contract either with the Lakers or another team.
According to Yaron Weitzman of Fox Sports, who predicted the destinations for the top 20 free agents, James is expected to sign a new three-year, $160 million contract to remain with the Lakers.
Weitzman noted on June 25 that 
James, now 39, will likely decline his current option to sign what could be the final contract of his NBA career. Due to the over-38 rule, James can only sign a contract for up to three years with any team, including the Lakers. Despite no longer being the top player in the league, James remains a significant force, having completed an All-NBA season with averages of 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game while achieving a career-high 41% from three-point range.
Weitzman also mentioned that while other teams with cap space, like the Philadelphia 76ers and the Dallas Mavericks, might attempt to lure James away, it would be surprising if he doesn’t stay with the Lakers. He believes James will opt out and secure a new three-year, $160 million deal with a no-trade clause.
From ESPN’s perspective, Dave McMenamin reported that the Lakers are committed to re-signing James and are prepared to offer the maximum three-year contract available, reflecting his impressive performance during the 2023-24 season where he averaged 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists over 71 games, shooting 54.0% from the field and a career-best 41.0% from beyond the arc.
John Hollinger of The Athletic suggests that James might choose to opt into his deal for $51.4 million for the upcoming season and then sign an extension in late August for a total of three years and $162 million. However, opting out to sign a new contract with a no-trade clause might be more appealing as it would give James control over his future, either ensuring he stays with the Lakers or allowing him to dictate his next move.
