Jeanie Buss Discusses LeBron James' Future

Lakers owner says James may just want to 'go out quietly' as a free agent

Apr. 20, 2026 at 2:45pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball court and players in a palette of deep purple, royal blue, and metallic gold, representing the complex and multi-faceted nature of LeBron James' future plans.A cubist interpretation of the uncertainty surrounding LeBron James' future with the Lakers.Los Angeles Today

In a recent interview, Los Angeles Lakers owner Jeanie Buss discussed the future of superstar LeBron James, who will be a free agent this offseason. Buss acknowledged the team's desire to see James retire as a Laker, but said it's ultimately up to the player to decide his next move.

Why it matters

LeBron James is one of the NBA's all-time greats, and his future plans will have a major impact on the Lakers and the league as a whole. Buss' comments provide insight into the team's perspective and the uncertainty surrounding James' next steps.

The details

Buss was asked how badly the Lakers want James to remain with the team and retire as a Laker. She responded: 'Well, I've always said I want to see him retire as a Laker. But he's going to be a free agent. It's really his decision.' Buss suggested James may simply 'want to go out quietly' as he enters the final stages of his legendary career.

  • LeBron James will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason (Summer 2026).

The players

Jeanie Buss

The owner of the Los Angeles Lakers and one of the most influential figures in the NBA.

LeBron James

A 19-time NBA All-Star and four-time champion who has played for the Lakers since 2018.

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What they’re saying

“Well, I've always said I want to see him retire as a Laker. But he's going to be a free agent. It's really his decision.”

— Jeanie Buss, Lakers Owner

The takeaway

Jeanie Buss' comments suggest the Lakers are open to LeBron James' future plans, whether that involves retiring with the team or pursuing other opportunities as a free agent. The uncertainty around James' future highlights the delicate balance between honoring a legendary career and allowing the player to make his own choice.