LeBron James is considering playing out his current contract with the Los Angeles Lakers rather than sign the two-year, $97.1 million extension available to him this offseason, according to sources that spoke with Sam Amick of The Athletic. 

An extension this summer would tie James to the Lakers through 2025.

When asked about an extension during his exit interview, James hedged on his future. 

“The conversation hasn’t been talked about,” James began. “Technically it’s because (with) the collective bargaining agreement (it) cannot even be discussed until later on in the year. So, you know, I know what’s out there. But we can’t even — myself and Rich — can’t even begin to talk with Rob [Pelinka], or the front office at all, because of the collective bargaining agreement. So (when) we get to that point, we’ll see.”

James prioritized flexibility and freedom during his second stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers, but he has so far taken more a long-term view with the Lakers.

James has also stated repeatedly that he would like to someday play on the same team as his son Bronny James.