NBA Odds and News: LeBron is Back

NBANEWS
July 1, 2025

NBA Odds and News

LeBron James Is Back for His 23rd Season with the Lakers. He signed an Extension

 

The King Isn’t Retiring Yet: He Picked Up His $52.6 Million Option and Will Keep Making History in 2025-26

Basketball fans are celebrating—and so are sports bettors. NBA superstar LeBron James has decided to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers for one more year after exercising his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season. With this decision, LeBron not only confirms that he’s not retiring just yet, but also makes NBA history by becoming the first player ever to play a 23rd season in the league.

But beyond the historic milestone, this announcement has a direct impact on the betting world. The NBA 1st Half Lines for the Lakers have already started to shift now that it’s confirmed the King will remain on the court—and he won’t be alone. His new teammate is none other than Luka Doncic.

 

One More Year of LeBron: Experience, Leadership, and Full Motivation

 

At 40 years old (he’ll turn 41 in December), LeBron James continues to show that time hasn’t slowed him down. Last year, LeBron delivered 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game—an impressive stat line that underscores his ongoing dominance. He was named to the All-NBA Second Team for the 21st consecutive time, an unmatched record.

In addition, if LeBron plays at least 50 games next season, he will surpass Robert Parish as the player with the most games played in NBA history. Yet another record that could fall before our very eyes.

 

How the NBA Odds Shift with LeBron and Doncic Together

 

The pairing of LeBron James and Luka Doncic, who arrived in a surprising trade from Dallas midway through last season, has generated huge expectations among sportsbooks and fans alike. The NBA odds  reflect that excitement:

  • Lakers to win the NBA Championship: +1400
  • Lakers to win the Western Conference: +800
  • Lakers to win the Pacific Division: +145

This means that, although they are not the top favorites for the title, the Lakers are firmly positioned among the top 6 contenders. In other words, if you bet now and they win, the payout could be substantial.

 

What Does This Mean for Bettors?

 

With LeBron opting in and Doncic on board for a full season, the NBA odds for the Lakers have improved significantly. Sharp bettors are already jumping in to take early positions before the rest of the offseason (free agent signings and trades) potentially alters the odds even further.

 

Here are some popular strategies among bettors:

 

Bet on the Lakers to win their division: With NBA odds at +145, it’s an attractive line, especially with the Golden State Warriors,  Phoenix Suns, and Sacramento Kings possibly taking a step back.

Futures bet on NBA Champion: Though not the favorites (+1400), if the team adds a dominant center and improves its defense, that line could shorten fast.

MVP for LeBron or Doncic: A riskier pick, but the storyline (LeBron’s final years, superstar duo) could give it extra value.

 

What Do the Lakers Need to Improve Their NBA Odds?

 

Despite all their talent, the Lakers were eliminated in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves. What went wrong? Mainly, a lack of interior presence after Anthony Davis was traded away as part of the deal that brought Doncic to L.A.

Rob Pelinka, President of Basketball Operations, has already stated that the team will search for a dominant center this summer. An attempt to acquire Mark Williams from Charlotte fell through due to medical concerns.

If they manage to land that key piece, the Lakers’ NBA 1st Half Lines will likely improve immediately, positioning them as a legitimate threat in the West.

 

Will LeBron Stay the Entire Season?

 

Even though he signed his $52.6 million option, LeBron has a no-trade clause. That means that if the Los Angeles Lakers don’t look like genuine title contenders within the first few months, he could still push for a trade. And that would directly affect the NBA second-half lines for both the Lakers and any potential destination.

But for now, the plan is crystal clear: compete with Doncic, strengthen the roster, and chase one more championship for the legend.

 

Is Now the Right Time to Bet on the Lakers?

 

According to sportsbooks, this may be the best moment to bet on the Lakers, before more reinforcements arrive and odds drop. Some key reasons include:

  • Luka and LeBron from Day One: They’ll have all of the training camp to build chemistry and work together.
  • LeBron wants a storybook ending: He’s more motivated than ever to win during what could be his final seasons.

 

He’s expected to invest heavily.

 

Ownership has changed hands, bringing new financial firepower: Dodgers owner Mark Walter acquired the franchise for a staggering $10 billion.

So if you’re thinking of making a move, checking and comparing NBA Odds today could give you a serious advantage.

 

History, Records, and NBA Odds Opportunities

 

The upcoming 2025-26 campaign promises to be legendary, with LeBron on track to break unprecedented NBA records. But it will also be a golden opportunity for smart bettors who can read the signs. The NBA first-half lines are constantly shifting, and being in early can make the difference between a missed opportunity and a winning one.

With Doncic and LeBron starting the season together, a potential big-man signing, and a new billionaire owner ready to invest, the Lakers’ show is far from over. And you can be part of it—not just as a fan… but as a winner.

 

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