BREAKING: L.A Lakers LeBron James officially Won’t B…read more.
July 5, 2025
Despite ongoing fan speculation and swirling social media rumors, sources close to the situation have confirmed that LeBron James will not be bought out of his current contract, nor is a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the cards.
The Los Angeles Lakers superstar recently exercised his $52.6 million player option to remain with the team for the 2025-26 NBA season—his historic 23rd season in the league. This decision reaffirms his commitment to the Lakers franchise, where he continues to play a pivotal role both on and off the court. While there had been whispers suggesting a potential reunion with his hometown Cavaliers, particularly after Cleveland made a series of bold offseason moves, league insiders have now dismissed that possibility entirely.
“There is zero chance LeBron will be bought out,” one NBA executive told reporters. “He’s all-in with the Lakers, and the front office has made that clear as well. They’re not parting ways with the face of their franchise.”
LeBron’s ties to Cleveland remain strong emotionally—he led the team to its first and only NBA championship in 2016 and remains a beloved figure in Ohio—but from a basketball and business standpoint, the fit no longer makes sense. The Cavaliers are focused on developing their young core, including Darius Garland and Evan Mobley, while LeBron continues chasing history and championships in Los Angeles.
Additionally, a buyout scenario would come at an enormous financial cost and disrupt the Lakers’ strategic plans. With Bronny James, LeBron’s son, also now part of the Lakers’ roster, the family dynamic adds another layer of loyalty to the franchise. The duo made NBA history earlier this year as the first father-son pair to play on the same team.
For now, all signs point to LeBron finishing his career in the purple and gold. While the idea of a fairy-tale return to Cleveland has captivated fans, especially after LeBron’s heartfelt tributes to his roots, the reality is far more grounded.
Simply put, LeBron James will not be bought out, and a third stint in Cleveland is not happening. Lakers fans can rest assured that the King remains firmly seated on his throne in Los Angeles.
