LeBron’s $52.6M Option: By the Numbers

LeBron James’ decision to exercise his $52.6 million player option for 2025-26 places him among the highest-paid players in league history at age 40.

Let’s break it down:

Age & Longevity

• LeBron turns 41 during the 2025-26 season.

• Only two other players—Vince Carter and Robert Parish—have played at that age.

• James will become the first player to earn over $50M in a single season at 41.

Salary Cap Implications

• The NBA salary cap is projected to hit $141M in 2025–26.

• LeBron’s contract will consume ~37% of the Lakers’ total cap space.

• The Lakers may need to use mid-level and veteran minimum exceptions creatively.

Performance vs. Cost

• Last season: 25.7 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 8.3 APG, 54% FG.

• Only Michael Jordan (Wizards) posted comparable production at 38+.

Historical Comparisons

• At 23 seasons, James ties Vince Carter for most seasons played.

• Career earnings post-2025 will exceed $530 million, the most in NBA history.

James’ bet isn’t just on himself—it’s on the Lakers’ ability to build a winner fast.