LeBron James is back for another historic season, but with Luka Doncic now running the show, every move in Los Angeles carries questions about legacy, retirement, and the chase for one last title. He surprised some by exercising his $52.6 million player option instead of opting out, a move that gives him flexibility while keeping him in Los Angeles. As Rob Pelinka framed the team strategy at Doncic’s extension news conference, “Make no mistakes, we’re in win championship now mode always,” which signals the front office wants to balance present pushes with future optionality.

That balance is why LeBron and his camp are watching the Lakers closely as roster moves unfold, and why Rich Paul has been explicit about James’ priorities. Paul told ESPN that “LeBron wants to compete for a champi

See Full Page