LeBron James to free agency after declining Los Angeles Lakers contract option

LeBron James has declined the player option on the final season of his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, making him a free agent when free agency begins Sunday, a person familiar with the decision told USA TODAY Sports.

The person requested anonymity because he was not authorized to speak publicly about James’ plans.

Despite the opt-out, it’s expected that James will re-sign with the Lakers – especially after they selected his son Bronny with the 55th overall pick in the second round of the NBA draft Thursday.

James, who turns 40 on Dec. 30, could’ve exercised his player option and played the final year of his contract with the Lakers in 2024-25 for $51.4 million.

If James wants to stay a Laker − and he said as much at All-Star Weekend in February when asked by USA TODAY Sports − and have control over his future, opting out and re-signing with the Lakers on a three-year, $162 million deal is the best option.

He can include a no-trade clause in a new deal, which would silence any talk about the Lakers sending James to another team.