LeBron James Says Lakers Contract Status Will Have 'No Impact' on 2025-26 NBA Season

LeBron James previously exercised his $52.6 million player option for this year, but he's currently set to enter next offseason as a free agent.

When asked during media day if he thought being in a contract year will have any impact on this coming season, James provided the following answer to ESPN's Dave McMenamin.

"It will have no impact. I'm super excited about the challenges and the excitement of our team. We added some new guys. We got another year under our belt with our coaching staff from last year. Got a full year with [Luka Dončić] and another year with the guys I've been with, so super excited about that. I'm not worried about contracts. That doesn't bother me at all. Super humble to even have a contract still and be able to play the game that I love still at this part of my career and take full advantage of it."

The 40-year-old James, who is entering his 23rd NBA season, averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds per game last year.

This could be an exciting year for the Lakers, who will enjoy a full season of five-time All-NBA guard Luka Dončić. The 26-year-old arrived in town on Feb. 1 after the Dallas Mavericks stunningly traded the superstar to L.A.

The Lakers also added a few key pieces, including a starting big man (Deandre Ayton), a defensive stopper and combo guard (Marcus Smart) and a 6'7" forward who shot 42.3 percent from three last year (Jake LaRavia).

James, of course, has stayed great despite playing into his 40s and his third decade in the league. He was an All-NBA Second Teamer last year and could very well enjoy another great season this year.

Naturally, there are questions about what's next for James after the 2025-26 season without a contract, but for now, he is focused on the upcoming campaign in hopes of a fifth NBA championship.