William Liang-Imagn Images

Update emerges on LeBron James’ playing future

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Mar 16, 2026 4:24 PM ET

A new update has emerged regarding LeBron James’ NBA future.

In an appearance on ESPN’s “Get Up!” Monday, Shams Charania said the “feeling around LeBron and the league” is that James will play one more season. He added, however, that how the Los Angeles Lakers finish the campaign could have a big impact on where he plays and if he plays at all.

“The feeling around LeBron James and around the league is that he’s going to go at least one more season,” Charania said. “How the Lakers’ season finishes will play a big factor in LeBron James’ future. How does their season end? How does his season end? How is his health? How is he feeling mentally and emotionally?”

The feeling around LeBron James and the league is he will play at least one more season, per @ShamsCharania

“LeBron hasn’t made a decision on if he’s going to continue to play. The feeling around LeBron and the league is he’ll go at least one more season. How the Lakers finish… pic.twitter.com/AFas0xYOv6
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) March 16, 2026

The Lakers enter play Monday at 42-25, though James is skeptical of their chances of winning a championship. A deep playoff run could change his mind on that front, but an early exit might drive him toward one of the other teams he has been linked to.

James still appears to have the desire and ability to play. He is averaging 21.3 points and 7.0 assists per game and remains an impactful player on both ends. While he has yet to make a decision, the big question for next season increasingly seems like one of where he will play as opposed to if he will.

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

More must-reads: