Lakers Predicted to Part Ways With One Player After LeBron James News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated May 28, 2025 1:35 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers entered the 2025 NBA Playoffs with championship aspirations, boasting a 50-32 regular-season record that secured them the third seed in the Western Conference. The midseason acquisition of Luka Doncic, in a blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks, was seen as a transformative move to pair with LeBron James and elevate the Lakers to title contention.

James, even at 40, delivered a stellar season, averaging 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds over 70 games, while Doncic complemented him with averages of 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists in 28 games.

While James owns a player option for next season, and could potentially retire, it was reported by ESPN's Shams Charania on Tuesday (via Pat McAfee Show) that he is expected to exercise his option and return for a 23rd NBA season.

The news of James returning places even more pressure on the Lakers to upgrade their roster this offseason in pursuit of a championship, particularly at the center position. Playing without a traditional center behind James and Doncic in the playoffs allowed opponents like Rudy Gobert to exploit the interior, especially in Game 5.

Amid this, it was reported by ClutchPoints' Anthony Irwin that Jaxson Hayes is unlikely to return to the Lakers next season.

I wrote about the Lakers' center pursuit. I'm told they've been extremely active and are looking to add multiple bigs who compliment one another, with the priority being a lob threat for Luka. Also touched on potential returning options. It doesn't seem likely Hayes will be back.
— Anthony F. Irwin (@AnthonyIrwinLA) May 28, 2025

Hayes averaged 6.8 points and 4.8 rebounds per game during the regular season with an impressive 72.2% field goal percentage. However, his impact diminished in the playoffs, where he averaged just 1.8 points and 2.0 rebounds in 7.8 minutes over four games.

As the offseason begins, addressing the center position will remain a top priority to enhance the Lakers' competitiveness in the upcoming season, which could be James' last.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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