Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James. Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

After two decades, LeBron James has become expendable

By Adam Taylor | Last updated May 3, 2025 9:34 AM ET

LeBron James, who just completed his age-40 season, once again saw his Lakers eliminated from the postseason far too soon. He will now begin deciding whether to continue his Hall-of-Fame NBA career in 2025-26, for which he has a player option worth $52.6 million.

In recent years, LeBron has opted out of his player option to sign a new deal and maximize his earning potential. However, that was before 26-year-old star Luka Doncic joined the Lakers, making LeBron no longer the nucleus Los Angeles general manager Rob Pelinka was trying to build around.

According to former NBA forward Paul Pierce, now might be the right time for LeBron to leave L.A.

"The Lakers want to get back in championship contention moving forward," Pierce said on a May 2 episode of SPEAK. "You have to get out of the constraints of the LeBron era...He's done some wonderful things for the Lakers organization. No question...They're probably gonna build a statue of LeBron... But I'm just saying they have to say, "Bron, we appreciate your services. I think we should move on." Tough conversation. Tough conversation. It's time for the Luka era now."

Doncic's presence will ensure that LeBron's voice no longer carries the same weight as the front office's. Nor will he be the focal point of the team's efforts. As such, LeBron could look to join a winning situation as a high-level role player. He would leave significant money on the table, but doesn't need the additional payday.

Nevertheless, LeBron's being spoken about as a disposable asset for a team chasing a championship is a sign that he's no longer the untouchable superstar he once was. His age means he's viewed as a stop-gap rather than a building block. His on-court production matters until it doesn't.

The Lakers are building for their future. LeBron's age means he cannot participate in those preparations, rendering him expendable. By not opting into his player option, he would save the franchise close to $60 million. He would also allow Doncic to take complete control of the roster.

So, while it is unlikely to be Cleveland, LeBron may sign elsewhere this summer — or call it quits and turn his attention to other, off-court ventures.

Adam Taylor

Adam Taylor is a sports journalist based out of the UK. Adam has been covering the NBA for nearly a decade with a core focus on the Boston Celtics. He currently holds bylines with Yardbarker, SB Nation and USA Today

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