Los Angeles, CA – Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas has voiced strong criticism of the Los Angeles Lakers’ decision not to extend LeBron James, calling it a missed opportunity to fully support their franchise cornerstone.
Speaking on The Gilbert Arenas Show, the ex-All-Star suggested the Lakers should have been more creative in structuring a deal that rewarded James beyond the typical contract.
“If I was the owner, I would have made a deal with him,” Arenas said. “I would have had him opt out of that 50-something [million]. Ask him what he wanted… If I can backdoor another 50 to him, like invest in his school or whatever, something that he’s going to capitalize later in life to save me 50 today where I can build — I would have done it.”
Arenas pointed out that while the Lakers lack the financial freedom of deep-pocketed owners like Steve Ballmer of the Clippers, they could have found alternative ways to secure LeBron’s future with the team.
LeBron Forced to Pick Up Player Option
According to Bleacher Report’s Yaron Weitzman, James wanted to sign an extension this summer, but the Lakers were unwilling to commit. As a result, the 40-year-old forward exercised his $52.6 million player option for 2025–26, the final season of his two-year, $104 million deal with a no-trade clause.
“He obviously wanted an extension, and it’s also clear that the Lakers wouldn’t give it to him,” a league source told Weitzman.
Lakers Give LeBron “Full Control” Over Retirement
When asked about the situation, Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka said the franchise is prioritizing respect for LeBron’s decision-making.
“The first thing we want to do in terms of LeBron and his future is just give him absolute respect to choose his story with his family,” Pelinka explained. “He’s earned that right… We would love if LeBron’s story would be to retire as a Laker.”
LeBron, entering his 23rd NBA season, has not officially announced when he plans to retire. Reports suggest he’s weighing a farewell tour similar to Kobe Bryant rather than a quiet exit like Michael Jordan.
A Strong Season Still Ahead
Despite the uncertainty, LeBron remains highly productive. Last year, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists, guiding the Lakers to the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference.
As the 2025–26 season begins, fans are left wondering whether this will be LeBron’s last ride — and whether the Lakers’ decision not to extend him will mark the beginning of the end of his storied tenure in purple and gold.