Lakers place future in LeBron James’ hands, grant coach JJ Redick an extension.

As LeBron James approaches his eighth season with the Los Angeles Lakers, his long-term plans remain uncertain. The 40-year-old superstar is entering the final year of his contract after exercising a $52.6 million option for 2025-26, prompting speculation about whether he will stay beyond this season. Lakers president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka said the organization intends to give James full control over his future, emphasizing that the four-time champion has earned the right to decide how long he wants to keep playing.

While James’ next move is undecided, the Lakers have secured stability on the sidelines by extending head coach JJ Redick. Hired in June 2024, Redick led the team to 50 wins and the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference during his first year. Although contract details weren’t disclosed, multiple reports describe the agreement as a multiyear deal. Pelinka praised Redick’s leadership and the culture he is building, calling him a “special coach with a special voice” and underscoring the franchise’s confidence in him as it plans for the future.

Redick, grateful for the early vote of confidence, acknowledged how rare it is for a first-time head coach to receive an extension so quickly. He highlighted productive off-season conversations with both James and Luka Doncic, expressing excitement about guiding the star duo into the new campaign. Redick also downplayed the importance of naming a starting lineup before training camp, noting the Lakers have multiple players capable of stepping into starting roles and that flexibility proved valuable during last season’s rotations.