LeBron's agent Rich Paul has previously told ESPN that "LeBron wants to compete for a championship" and that remains his priority. With how close he is to retirement and their recent addition of Luka Dončić, LeBron's approach and the Lakers approach may no longer match.

The Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly agreed the signing of Deandre Ayton for the 2025–26 NBA season, strengthening a roster already led by LeBron James and Luka Doncic.

Chris Haynes first reported the news. Over the weekend, the Blazers and Ayton agreed to a buyout of the final year of his contract worth $35.5 million over the weekend. The Blazers will pay $25 million of his contract after he agreed to give up $10 million in order to become a free agent.