Lakers' LeBron James faces $52 million contract decision after end of NBA Finals

   

It's not quite The Decision, but LeBron James does have a decision to make.

Lakers' record $10bn sale gives LeBron 'King' James golden pathway to his  next big NBA career move | talkSPORT

The Los Angeles Lakers star has a player option on his contract worth $52.6 million for the 2025-26 season.

And with the conclusion of the NBA Finals, it's time for LeBron to make up his mind.

He's still got a bit of window to finalize a decision, but James is up next to make a choice that could have a huge impact around the league.

When does LeBron James have to decide on his player option?

LeBron James has to decide on his contract player option by June 29.

 

James can opt-in and play the 2025-26 season on a $52.6 million salary. Or he can opt-out and pursue a new deal, most likely with the Lakers.

There haven't been any recent indications of a LeBron retirement, but technically, that could still be in play at any point.

LeBron James contract options

If James opts out, there's been one contract structure thrown around that makes sense.

The King could opt out, then sign a two-year deal worth about $104 million with the second year being a player option. Essentially, it would recreate this current deal, get James about the same money in 2025-26 and then set up the player option decision to be made next offseason and not this one.

But many recent reports indicate James will just lock in his current player option as his deal for the new season.

We'll know for sure in less than two weeks.