Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: LeBron James has one-word answer to question about Lakers future

By Eric Smithling | Last updated 2/3/24

Lakers forward LeBron James has a decision pending on his future in Los Angeles. When asked about it on Saturday, the NBA's all-time leading scorer kept his response short.

"No," he answered after ESPN's David McMenamin inquired about LeBron's plans after the season.

LeBron James declined to offer clarity on his ⌛️ tweet and when asked if he knows what he will do with his contract option for the Lakers this summer said, “No.” pic.twitter.com/0IydouZpPm
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 3, 2024

LeBron has a $51.4 million player option for the 2024-25 season, but there has been chatter that James could leave Los Angeles following the season.

The Lakers (25-25, ninth in Western Conference) are one of the league's most disappointing teams after reaching the Western Conference finals last season.

LeBron floated the idea of retiring following last year's playoff loss to the Nuggets. He might only have one or two seasons left in the NBA and spending it on a team stuck in neutral might not be his idea of fun.

Another factor in his decision is his son, Bronny James, being draft-eligible this year. LeBron has shared previously that he wants to play with his son, and while he slightly modified that sentiment last year, it will be something to keep an eye on this offseason.

Rich Paul, LeBron's agent, shot down rumors that his client would request a trade before Thursday's trade deadline, meaning he'll at least finish the season as a Laker.

This season, LeBron, 39, is averaging 24.9 points on 52 percent shooting. He leads the Lakers in assists (7.7) and steals (1.3) per game.

More must-reads: