Today, Lakeshowlife talked about Doncic's contract renewal of the Lakers in advance, believing that James needs to think about his positioning within the team.

Doncic renewed his contract with the Lakers in advance as expected. He is reportedly signed a three-year, $165 million contract that includes player options for 2028.

Apparently, the Lakers are focusing all their energy on the timeline surrounding Doncic, but that doesn't mean James is completely ignored. However, the all-time superstar is now more like the team's deputy. While there is no sign that James will retire immediately after the 2025-26 season, his contract is about to expire and he needs to answer one of the toughest questions of his career: Should he accept a secondary role in the Lakers or leave?

Some previous rumors about the relationship between James and the Lakers may be a bit exaggerated. For better or worse, James is likely to continue to stay with the team to play in the 2025-26 season. The possibility of a buyout is not high, and it is unimaginable to make a deal that will benefit both sides in the upcoming season. In addition, Brownie's performance in the team is getting better and better, so James will not leave in the short term.

However, the real turning point will arrive in the 2026 offseason. James was at the heart of the team at every important moment of his career until Doncic joined the Lakers last season. Now, the Lakers have a new star core. James used to enjoy the benefits of building a roster for him and even participated in the decision-making process to a certain extent, but now it is no longer there.

Rober Pelinka may listen more to Doncic in future acquisitions. The super point guard even played the role of recruiter in the summer of 2025, something James is very familiar with. Can James accept that he is no longer the team's engine but just one of the gears? If the four-time champion is willing to give up this power, his time in Los Angeles should be able to continue smoothly until his retirement. But if James still wants to be the manipulator behind the scenes, maybe it's time to start thinking about other ways.

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