Major Lakers Shakeup on the Horizon? 2025-26 Contract Decisions Revealed – LeBron’s $52M Option, DFS, and More….
The Los Angeles Lakers are facing a pivotal offseason as they gear up for the 2025–26 NBA season. At the center of it all is LeBron James, who holds a massive $52 million player option. Whether he opts in or tests free agency will heavily influence the team’s future direction. While James remains productive at 40, the Lakers must prepare for life after their franchise cornerstone.
Key roster decisions extend beyond LeBron. D’Angelo Russell has a player option worth $18.7 million, and his inconsistent playoff performances may sway the Lakers toward a fresh start at point guard. Defensive specialist Jarred Vanderbilt’s team-friendly contract becomes fully guaranteed, and while he brings grit, his offensive limitations could become a liability.
Meanwhile, the front office is eyeing potential trades or free agent signings to pair Anthony Davis with a younger star. Dallas’ Dorian Finney-Smith (DFS) has emerged as a trade target for his 3-and-D capabilities, though salary-matching hurdles remain. With limited draft assets and cap flexibility, GM Rob Pelinka must tread carefully.
The Lakers’ next moves will shape not just their 2025–26 roster, but the franchise’s post-LeBron era. All eyes are now on the King—and what domino falls next. Are big changes coming?
The Los Angeles Lakers are facing a pivotal offseason as they gear up for the 2025–26 NBA season. At the center of it all is LeBron James, who holds a massive $52 million player option. Whether he opts in or tests free agency will heavily influence the team’s future direction. While James remains productive at 40, the Lakers must prepare for life after their franchise cornerstone.
Key roster decisions extend beyond LeBron. D’Angelo Russell has a player option worth $18.7 million, and his inconsistent playoff performances may sway the Lakers toward a fresh start at point guard. Defensive specialist Jarred Vanderbilt’s team-friendly contract becomes fully guaranteed, and while he brings grit, his offensive limitations could become a liability.
Meanwhile, the front office is eyeing potential trades or free agent signings to pair Anthony Davis with a younger star. Dallas’ Dorian Finney-Smith (DFS) has emerged as a trade target for his 3-and-D capabilities, though salary-matching hurdles remain. With limited draft assets and cap flexibility, GM Rob Pelinka must tread carefully.
The Lakers’ next moves will shape not just their 2025–26 roster, but the franchise’s post-LeBron era. All eyes are now on the King—and what domino falls next. Are big changes coming?
