LeBron James Lakers future remains uncertain after the Los Angeles Lakers’ playoff exit. Meanwhile, general manager Rob Pelinka said the team would like to keep the 41-year-old on its roster.
Pelinka said Los Angeles would “love to have LeBron James”, but added that every NBA team would want him. He said the Lakers want to honour James by giving him time to decide his next move.
Rob Pelinka on LeBron:
“We probably haven’t seen a player that has honored the game to the extent that he’s honored the game. He’s given so much to his teammates, to this organization. The thing we want to do more than anything else is to honor him back” pic.twitter.com/Ggck7eq4gC
— Oh No He Didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) May 12, 2026The Lakers were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder after entering the postseason with injuries affecting key players. Luka Doncic was unable to return before the playoff exit, while Austin Reaves was also sidelined.
James had led the team through a first-round series against the Houston Rockets, playing a captain’s role despite the absences around him. As a result, his postseason performances left some Lakers fans hopeful he could return next season.
James has not announced whether he will return to the Lakers, join another team or retire this summer. Furthermore, media reports indicate that he had indicated his future would be elsewhere. However, Pelinka’s comments suggested Los Angeles has not ruled out continuing the partnership.
