Jeanie Buss' latest comments suggest LeBron James doesn't have future with Lakers

Signs continue to point toward forward LeBron James leaving the Los Angeles Lakers this upcoming offseason. 

A report surfaced Tuesday that the Lakers would welcome James, 41, returning for the 2026-27 season. L.A. governor Jeanie Buss, meanwhile, expressed doubt about his future with the franchise. 

Jeanie Buss discusses LeBron James' future with Lakers

"Never say never, but you know, he certainly hasn't given any indication," Buss told CNBC's Alex Sherman when asked if he'll play for the Lakers next season. "He's earned the right to decide how his career will go, and you know, he continues to impress." 

Buss then expanded on how selling the team to new owner Mark Walter will make it easier to build around star guard Luka Doncic, who turns 27 on Feb. 28. Walter, who also owns the Los Angeles Dodgers, purchased the team for a record $10B in June 2025. Buss reportedly received a five-year contract after overseeing Walter's acquisition. 

"The partnership will give us the stability to continue to move forward as we build toward a team around Doncic," she said. "We couldn't be more proud that he is a Laker. He's a young all-star that fans love to see." 

What to make of Jeanie Buss' comments?

Buss seems to be implying that the Lakers are now Doncic's team, and James returning next season isn't necessary.

James hasn't clarified whether he plans to play next year. Before the All-Star Game, the forward said his health and other components will determine when he retires. 

"There are so many more factors that come with how long I play the game. ...Once my body goes, then it's a wrap," he said (via ESPN's Dave McMenamin). "Then the love goes, and then the fun and all that stuff goes. So, that's what it is." 

If James plays next season, the Lakers may not re-sign him when he becomes a free agent. L.A. may feel keeping him would inhibit its ability to build around Doncic. 

Don't rule out James reuniting with the Cleveland Cavaliers for a second time. Joe Vardon and Jason Lloyd of The Athletic have reported it's an "obvious destination" for the 22-time All-Star. 

The Athletic's story noted James would make far less than the $52.6M he's earning in L.A. this season. However, he may be fine with that. He'll always be a "King" in Cleveland. The same can't be said for L.A., where Buss clearly wants to hand his throne to Doncic.