LeBron James Says Expiring Contract Won’t Affect His Play as Lakers Open 2025-26 Season
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LOS ANGELES — Media Day at the UCLA Health Training Center on Sept. 29 marked the beginning of a historic 23rd NBA season for LeBron James, and the Los Angeles Lakers forward made it clear his contract situation will not influence his performance.
For the first time in his career, the 40-year-old will play on an expiring deal after exercising a player option for 2025-26 worth $52.6 million. Asked whether entering the final year of his agreement might alter his approach, James dismissed the idea.
“It will have no impact,” he told ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. “I’m super excited about the challenges and the excitement of our team. We added some new guys, we’ve got another year with our coaching staff, a full year with Luka [Doncic], and another year with the guys I’ve been with. I’m not worried about contracts at this point in my career.”
James spent the summer rehabbing a knee injury sustained during last season’s playoffs and is reported to be healthy. Both he and agent Rich Paul have reiterated that his priority remains chasing another championship in Los Angeles.
Head coach JJ Redick, entering his second season on the sideline, said the four-time MVP is in “a great spot mentally” after their offseason conversations. The Lakers, who revamped the supporting cast around James and Doncic, open training camp this week.
Source: LakersNation.com
