LeBron James rumors are swirling as Cavs, Mavericks, and Knicks eye a potential buyout, but the Lakers remain firm on keeping him.

Well that was a waste of time. After a rumor-fueled summer thus far, LeBron James is apparently shutting down any trade or buyout talk, at least for the near future: according to The Athletic's Dan Woike and Joe Vardon,

S peculation over LeBron James’ future has intensified as he enters his 23rd NBA season. The 40-year-old opted into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, marking the first time during his Lakers tenure that he didn’t sign a multi-year extension when faced with the ability to do so.

"The King" himself, LeBron James. Four teams are currently leading the sweepstakes for the future Hall of Famer, the Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers, and even his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers, whom he has already served two stints with.

James was reportedly asked by ESPN if he wanted to share thoughts on picking up his $52.6 million player option and speculation surrounding a supposed strained relationship with ownership, but he declined. "I ain't got nothing to talk about," ESPN's Dave McMenamin said James told him off camera.