Jason Burgos
A new report suggests that if it’s up to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, LeBron James will be back in Los Angeles next season.
On Monday, the Lakers saw their 2025-26 campaign come to a disappointing end when the Oklahoma City Thunder completed a dominant four-game sweep in the semifinals of the NBA playoffs. After their 115-110 loss at home, the speculation about James’ future immediately kicked off.
As of now, the impending free agent is unsure if he will even play again next season. However, if he does, Los Angeles remains the favorite to retain his services. Yet, there have been various reports about a growing divide between management and the 22-time All-Star as he allegedly feels “taken for granted” by the team’s front office.
However, a bigger question is his fit on this team. Doncic and Reaves will be the faces of the franchise long-term, especially if the Lakers ink the latter to a new long-term contract this summer. Their thoughts on James’ return will certainly hold value with management. And if it matters a great deal, the four-time MVP will be back in purple and gold next season.
Both Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves want Lebron James to re-sign with LA Lakers
“A report stating that Los Angeles Lakers stars Luka Doncic and LeBron James don’t get along is not true,” sources allegedly told Dallas Hoops Journal. “Doncic and James have a positive relationship, and Doncic wants James to re-sign with the Lakers this summer.”
“Austin Reaves, who will decline his player option for next season, is expected to re-sign with the Lakers this summer,” the outlet added. “The undrafted guard has a close relationship with James as well and wants James to continue playing for the Purple and Gold if he doesn’t retire from the NBA.”
At least when it comes to the Lakers’ top two players going forward, they both want the future Hall of Famer back on the team for at least one more season.
