TITLE: Warriors Gather Intel Indicating LeBron James Plans to Re-Sign With Lakers
SLUG: warriors-see-lebron-likely-to-stay-with-lakers
CONTENT:
Golden State’s front office believes LeBron James is on course to finalize a new contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, despite the Warriors being widely viewed as the most serious outside threat for the 41-year-old forward, according to ESPN’s Anthony Slater.
Team officials have examined scenarios in which James leaves Los Angeles and have outlined a potential offer built around the non-taxpayer mid-level exception, projected at slightly more than $15 million. Golden State could attach a player option for a second season and enlist Stephen Curry in direct recruiting, Slater reported. Even so, executives currently expect the four-time MVP to remain in L.A.
James will enter unrestricted free agency this summer for the first time since joining the Lakers in 2018. Los Angeles owns his Bird rights, giving the club the ability to propose a salary well above the mid-level figure—though likely below the $52.6 million he earned in 2025-26—and can include a no-trade clause. A no-trade clause would not be available in any Warriors offer because league rules require four years of service with the same team.
Talks Already Underway
During an appearance Tuesday on ESPN Cleveland, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst said he believes the Lakers and James have already started negotiating.
“I think LeBron’s intention is to play, and I think the focus right now is making a deal with the Lakers,” Windhorst said, noting that free agency opens in 14 days. He added that the size of the contract could hinge on other moves the Lakers attempt in free agency. Should talks stall, Windhorst suggested other teams—such as the Cavaliers—might move quickly, although league sentiment still points to an eventual agreement between James and Los Angeles.
Source: Hoops Rumors
