After Paul's comments opened the trade speculation floodgates regarding the future Hall of Fame inductee, the Lakers have made it obvious that their 26-year-old superstar Dončić is viewed as the more important piece at this point in time, a wildly unfamiliar situation for James.

Deandre Ayton has joined the Los Angeles Lakers, expressing his excitement about playing alongside Luka Doncic. Ayton signed a two-year, $16.6 million contract after being bought out by the Portland Trail Blazers.

LeBron James is potentially on the trade block as his situation with the Lakers is in a big question mark for the time being. The Lakers could pull the trigger on a trade for Luka Doncic another big man.

LeBron James accomplished one of his stated career goals last season, and it was perhaps one of his most impressive. In his 22nd season, James was able to suit up and play alongside his son, Bronny, for the Los Angeles Lakers. And after picking up his player option last week it seems James will do so again in the 2025–26 campaign.

Most around the NBA seem to believe LeBron James isn’t going anywhere. After exercising a $52.6 million player option before the start of free agency, he is likely to stay put and play for the Los Angeles Lakers.