Veteran center Brook Lopez, 37, was heavily linked with the Los Angeles Lakers during free agency, but instead opted to join their crosstown rivals, the LA Clippers, signing a two-year deal worth $18 million.
While the Lakers were reportedly open to offering Lopez a starting role, the seasoned big man had concerns — specifically regarding LeBron James’ uncertain future with the franchise.
According to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne and Brian Windhorst, “Free agent center Brook Lopez, who league sources said had strongly considered the Lakers and the potential starting role, grew wary of the uncertainty around James’ future with the team and opted to sign with the rival LA Clippers, where he will be a backup.”
The report adds fuel to the growing speculation that LeBron’s time in L.A. could be winding down. The Lakers declined to offer him an extension beyond the 2025–26 season, and ESPN notes that James “was not consulted on two of the team’s major decisions in 2025.”
Sources told ESPN that LeBron feels the organization is focusing more on long-term planning rather than winning now — a major issue for the 40-year-old superstar who is still chasing championships.
Despite this, James recently exercised his $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season and holds a no-trade clause. Still, a buyout could make him an unrestricted free agent, with the Cleveland Cavaliers reportedly interested in a reunion.
This isn’t the first time Lopez has passed on the Lakers. In 2023, he re-signed with the Milwaukee Bucks on a two-year, $48 million contract despite L.A.’s interest.
Lopez is coming off a solid 2024–25 season where he averaged 13.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.8 assists over 80 games, while also bringing experience as a 2021 NBA champion and former All-Defensive Team selection.
With Lopez out of the picture, the Lakers addressed their need at center by signing Deandre Ayton this offseason.
