LeBron James Likely Staying With Lakers Through Trade Deadline

Merlin sees LeBron James is expected to finish the 2025-26 season with the Lakers and avoid a trade at the deadline, per ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. The Cavaliers, Knicks and Warriors are called "plausible destinations" if he keeps playing. He picked up his $52.6 million player option and will be a free agent after the season. Lakers governor Jeanie Buss "privately grumbled" about his "outsized ego and the overt control," though both sides downplayed it. Merlin senses that at 41 LeBron prefers stability and the Lakers' 29-19 record gives reason to stay. Rival suitors could press harder in the summer if he forgoes retirement, especially as teams sort moves around Giannis and Harden. Merlin watches the clock; his choice will redraw the league map.