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How LeBron James has communicated with LA Lakers and Luka Doncic during turbulent offseason amid rumors

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Aaditya Krishnamurthy | Last updated Aug 5, 2025 1:05 PM ET

LeBron James and the LA Lakers have seemingly been at odds all summer, but what have their communications been like?

The Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James haven’t quelled any concerns about the state of their relationship this summer.

For years, James would sign a one-year contract with the Lakers and turn down his player option to negotiate another one-year deal.

But this season was different. James opted into his $52.6 million Lakers’ player option this summer, suggesting he couldn’t come to terms on a new deal.

Furthermore, the Lakers didn’t inform James of the sale to Mark Walter. As a franchise superstar, that is quite a disrespectful move.

It appears the Lakers are willing to let LeBron James walk in the 2026 offseason. But as this relationship has gotten strained, what have the two sides been talking about?

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LeBron James and LA Lakers still maintaining healthy communication

Despite their reported issues, the Lakers and LeBron James have been talking constantly. According to Brett Siegel of Clutch Points, the Lakers and James have regularly been communicating.

Even with their issues, the Lakers and LeBron James have been talking about the new season, and their goals of winning an NBA championship next season.

“Throughout the offseason, amid trade, buyout, and retirement speculation surrounding the future Hall of Famer, LeBron has been talking with several members of the team’s staff.

“He never once cut off communication with the team, and James is devoted to winning in Los Angeles, sources said.

“Whether or not this will be his final year with the Lakers is a completely different conversation.

“In response to asking about potential retirement rumors and the possibility of him continuing his career elsewhere, the word surrounding LeBron has been quiet.

Luka Doncic also kept in the loop this offseason

Luka Doncic and LeBron James have also been in contact. In fact, the two players continued their strong relationship with regular and positive interactions.

“As far as his communication with members of the Lakers this summer, including Doncic, James is said to be his ‘normal, joyful self,’ sources said.

“There haven’t been any indications among these conversations between James and team personnel that he is unhappy and wants to leave Los Angeles immediately.”