WINPH Sports Report — October 11. LeBron James is set to miss the start of the new NBA season due to injury, marking the first time in his 22-year career that he’s sidelined at tip-off. Recently, LeBron sparked online buzz after teasing a mysterious “Decision 2” announcement on social media — many thought it would be a retirement reveal, but it turned out to be just a marketing tease. Still, the fact that LeBron isn’t retiring has thrilled fans everywhere.
Although LeBron previously admitted he’s in the “countdown” phase of his career, he also emphasized that it’s not time to hang it up just yet. Adding to the intrigue, his second son Bryce James will be eligible for the NBA Draft next year. LeBron has said his retirement plans aren’t tied to Bryce’s debut, but if his son does make a serious run at the league, it wouldn’t be surprising to see LeBron stay a bit longer — perhaps to make history by sharing the court with another of his sons.
Now the question is: If LeBron stays, will he re-sign with the Lakers?
According to multiple reports, several contenders — including the Warriors, Clippers, Mavericks, and Cavaliers — already tried to recruit LeBron this past offseason but failed. The Lakers, of course, want to keep their franchise cornerstone and are reportedly prepared to offer him a maximum contract. But as always, it depends on whether they can show enough sincerity and a championship plan.
So how much could LeBron actually earn?
ESPN insider Dave McMenamin reported that if LeBron chooses to re-sign with the Lakers next summer, he would be eligible for a three-year, $188 million contract. That deal would pay him roughly $58.1 million in the 2025–26 season — nearly $60 million for a single year!
Even at 40 years old, LeBron James continues to break records both on and off the court. His influence, market value, and performance remain unmatched — proving once again why he’s not just an NBA legend, but a global icon still writing his story.
