NBA insider Ric Bucher stated that the Los Angeles Lakers had been planning for a future without LeBron James since acquiring Luka Doncic in 2025. Bucher commented on his show, "On The Ball With Ric Bucher," that the Lakers were prepared for James to inform them of his decision not to play for the team next season.
"I had to smile when it was reported that LeBron informed the Lakers that he didn’t intend to play for the Lakers next year. As if the Lakers weren’t intending for that to be the case," Bucher said. He added that the Lakers allowed James to present the departure in a way that preserved his dignity.
Bucher also expressed skepticism regarding claims by James' agent, Rich Paul, that numerous NBA teams were interested in acquiring the veteran player. "If teams were interested, he wouldn’t have to reach out to them," Bucher stated, suggesting James lacks the leverage he once held.
James, who is 41 years old, completed the past season playing in 60 games, averaging 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists. While still performing at a high level, these statistics are below his career averages. Bucher attributed this to the changing reality of James' value and the servicing demands associated with a player nearing 42.
The Lakers' acquisition of Doncic in 2025 was described as a shocking move at the time, involving a three-team trade with the Mavericks and Jazz that sent Anthony Davis to Dallas. Doncic was coming off a successful season with the Mavericks, having led them to the NBA Finals the previous year and averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game.
With James' next destination undisclosed, the Lakers' focus is reportedly on building around Doncic. The team has also made other acquisitions, including Walker Kessler via a sign-and-trade with the Jazz, and signed players like Quentin Grimes, Sandro Mamukelashvili, and Collin Sexton. Prior to free agency, the Lakers re-signed Austin Reaves to a four-year, $185 million contract, making him the highest-paid undrafted player in NBA history.