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Ty Lue shares his thoughts on LeBron James’ contract situation with the LA Lakers

Originally posted on HITC | By Bergas Agung | Last updated Aug 28, 2025 10:38 AM ET

Even with the offseason underway, discussions surrounding LeBron James’ future with the Los Angeles Lakers continue to be a talking point throughout the NBA.

It is not just about whether he will retire – there has also been growing talk about whether the Lakers might decide to move on from their ageing star before he gets there.

James has made it clear through his agent, Rich Paul, that he plans to stay in control of his own future and will put himself in a spot to chase another title.

With his current contract running out soon, it feels like decisions about what comes next are starting to pick up pace.

Tyronn Lue says LeBron James still has the final say over his next contract

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Tyronn Lue, who worked with James in Cleveland and now coaches the Clippers, admitted he was taken aback by how uncertain things seem for LeBron with the Lakers.

He thinks that if LeBron were to leave, it would be entirely on his own terms, given how well he is still playing.

“I’m surprised by that. I mean, this is a player that he gave you 24-8-7 last year, and he’s changed the game,” Lue said.

“He’s made it to where these guys were able to go to whatever teams they want to go to build their careers, and like he was the one to take that first step, he took all the heat, to get to this point where you see everybody’s doing it.”

Lue also mentioned: “So I think if he’s on expiring contract, I think it’s something he wants. I think if he’s on a one-year contract, that’s where he wants to be going back to Cleveland? I don’t know.”

Lue joked about being asked about a picture of James training at the Clippers’ old facility: “I don’t even know if I can speak on that… I can’t say nothing about that.”

LeBron’s place in the Lakers’ future remains unclear

Lue pointed out how LeBron has been a key figure in the movement towards player empowerment and argued that he should have the freedom to shape his own path.

Even at 40, LeBron put up impressive numbers last season, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game.

He is still a strong presence on offence, though there are questions about his defensive impact as he gets older.

This is LeBron’s final guaranteed year with the Lakers unless a new deal is agreed.

The team appears to be shifting its focus to building around Luka Doncic, leaving LeBron’s long-term role with the club up in the air.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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