LOS ANGELES — As the Los Angeles Lakers evaluate their future following a second-round playoff exit, a prominent anonymous NBA executive believes the franchise should offer LeBron James a massive short-term contract to keep the 41-year-old superstar in purple and gold for at least two more seasons, according to sources familiar with the discussions.

The executive, speaking on condition of anonymity because he is not authorized to comment publicly on another team’s roster decisions, told ESPN on Thursday that James has “absolutely earned” a deal in the range of $45-50 million annually for one or two years. The recommendation comes despite James entering unrestricted free agency this summer and the Lakers facing significant salary-cap constraints with Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves already on large long-term contracts.

“LeBron is still playing at an All-NBA level at 41 years old,” the executive said. “You don’t let a player like that walk out the door if you’re trying to win now. A short-term, high-value deal makes sense for both sides — it gives LeBron security and the Lakers one last legitimate window with him and Luka before they fully transition.”

James averaged elite numbers in the 2025-26 regular season before a hamstring injury sidelined him for the postseason. Even without him, the Lakers pushed the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder to four games in the second round, giving many within the organization hope that a healthy James alongside Dončić could make them serious title contenders in 2026-27.

Lakers Cap Situation Complicates Negotiations

The Lakers are projected to be over the luxury tax and second apron in 2026-27, meaning any new deal for James must be structured carefully to avoid severe roster restrictions. Pelinka and ownership have signaled willingness to pay the tax for contention, but repeated high spending has drawn scrutiny from the league office and rival executives.

A two-year, $90-100 million deal for James would keep him under contract through age 43 while providing the franchise with continuity and marketing power. James has repeatedly expressed love for the Lakers organization and a desire to finish his career in Los Angeles, but he has also made it clear he wants to compete for championships and maintain financial upside in what could be the final chapter of his playing days.

Sources say James and his representatives have not yet engaged in serious negotiations but are monitoring the Lakers’ offseason moves closely. The presence of Dončić — acquired in a 2025 blockbuster trade — changes the equation significantly. James has spoken privately about excitement at the prospect of playing with the Slovenian star, viewing him as a generational talent who can carry much of the offensive load.

James’ Enduring Value at 41

Despite turning 41 in December, James remains one of the league’s most complete players. He led the Lakers in scoring, assists and minutes during the regular season and showed no signs of major physical decline until the hamstring strain. His basketball IQ, leadership and ability to elevate teammates continue to set him apart, even as athleticism naturally decreases with age.

League executives who have watched James closely this season say his basketball intelligence and conditioning work have allowed him to adapt better than almost any player in NBA history. “Most guys at 41 are role players at best,” one Western Conference GM said. “LeBron is still a top-15 player when healthy. That’s unheard of.”

The anonymous executive who advocated for the big short-term deal pointed to James’ playoff performances in recent years and his off-court business empire as reasons the Lakers should prioritize keeping him. “He’s still moving tickets, jerseys and eyeballs,” the executive said. “You don’t replace that easily.”

Broader Lakers Offseason Strategy

The Lakers face difficult choices this summer. Re-signing James would limit flexibility for other additions, but letting him walk could signal the end of the current contention window. Pelinka has been aggressive in recent years, acquiring Dončić and surrounding the stars with complementary pieces like Reaves and Rui Hachimura.

Insiders say the front office views James as the perfect bridge between the current core and the post-LeBron era. Keeping him for two more seasons would allow younger players like Bronny James — LeBron’s son — more time to develop under his father’s mentorship while the team competes at a high level.

James has been vocal about wanting to play with Bronny, and the Lakers drafted the younger James in 2024 partly with that goal in mind. A new contract for LeBron would likely include language that facilitates that shared experience, something both father and son have expressed excitement about.

Fan and League-Wide Reaction

Lakers fans have reacted strongly to the possibility of LeBron returning on a big short-term deal. Social media has been flooded with support for keeping the franchise icon, with many arguing that his leadership and on-court presence remain invaluable. “Pay the man,” became a trending phrase among supporters Thursday night.

League-wide, opinions are more mixed. Some executives believe the Lakers should begin a soft rebuild around Dončić and younger talent rather than committing massive money to a player in his 40s. Others see the move as smart business — James still moves the needle culturally and competitively, and a short-term deal minimizes long-term risk.

LeBron himself has stayed relatively quiet on his future, focusing instead on recovery and family time after the playoff loss. In a recent interview, he emphasized enjoying the present while leaving future decisions open. “I’m still having fun playing this game,” he said. “We’ll see what happens.”

Historical Context of Late-Career Contracts

James would not be the first superstar to sign a major deal in his early 40s. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar played until 42, and many Hall of Famers have had productive final seasons on sizable contracts. Modern medicine, training techniques and load management have extended careers significantly compared to previous generations.

If James signs a two-year deal worth around $100 million, it would rank among the largest for a player his age but would be justified by his continued production and box-office draw. The Lakers have shown willingness to pay top dollar for star power, as evidenced by previous contracts for James and other veterans.

The anonymous executive’s comments reflect a growing sentiment within NBA circles that James still has “plenty left in the tank” and deserves to be compensated accordingly if he chooses to continue playing. Whether the Lakers ultimately agree and structure a deal that fits their cap sheet will be one of the most closely watched storylines of the 2026 offseason.

As free agency approaches, all eyes remain on James and the Lakers. A massive short-term contract could keep the James era alive in Los Angeles for two more seasons, giving fans one last chance to witness the greatest player of his generation alongside a new generation of stars. For now, the possibility remains alive, fueled by at least one influential voice in league circles who believes LeBron James has more than earned it.

Russell Investments is a leading global investment solutions partner providing a wide range of investment capabilities to institutional investors, financial intermediaries, and individual investors around the world. Since 1936, Russell Investments has been building a legacy of continuous innovation to deliver exceptional value to clients, working every day to improve people’s financial security. The firm has US$331 billion in assets under management (as of 12/31/2024) for clients in 30 countries. Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Russell Investments has offices in 17 cities around the world.

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Alexander Blostein – Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., Research Division
Steven Chubak – Wolfe Research, LLC
Brennan Hawken – BMO Capital Markets Equity Research
Benjamin Budish – Barclays Bank PLC, Research Division
David Smith – Truist Securities, Inc., Research Division
Devin Ryan – Citizens JMP Securities, LLC, Research Division
Michael Cyprys – Morgan Stanley, Research Division
Charles John Bendit – Rothschild & Co Redburn, Research Division
Michael Brown – UBS Investment Bank, Research Division
Kenneth Worthington – JPMorgan Chase & Co, Research Division
Christopher Allen – Keefe, Bruyette, & Woods, Inc., Research Division
Steven Wharton
Ritwik Roy – Jefferies LLC, Research Division
Brian Bedell – Deutsche Bank AG, Research Division
Jacquelyne Cavanaugh – Putnam Investment Management, LLC

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In the past 24 hours, Bitcoin slipped 2% and Ethereum fell 1% to trade at $2,217 mark. Among the major altcoins, BNB, XRP, Solana, Tron, Dogecoin, Hyperliquid, and Cardano slipped up to 8%. The global crypto market capitalisation edged down 2% to $2.63 trillion, according to CoinMarketCap.

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Riya Sehgal, Research Analyst, Delta Exchange said that Bitcoin’s latest pullback appears to be part of a broader macro-led risk-off move. Technically, Bitcoin has again failed to build acceptance above the $82,000–$82,500 resistance band, which remains the key ceiling for momentum traders.

Sehgal also said that as long as Bitcoin holds this region, the market can still treat the move as consolidation after a recovery; however, a clean break below $78,500 may expose the 200-EMA region near $77,800 and overall, crypto markets need confirmation from ETF flows, macro liquidity, yields and on-chain holder behaviour before the next directional trend becomes clearer.

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According to the data by CoinMarketCap, in the past week, Bitcoin fell 2% whereas Ethereum fell 4%. Among the major altcoins, XRP, Solana, Tron, Hyperliquid and Cardano went down up to 7% whereas BNB was up 2%.
WazirX Market Desk said that Bitcoin traded mostly around the $79,000-$81,000 range this week, with sentiment staying constructive despite short-term volatility and RSI readings remained largely in the mid-50s to low-60s, indicating steady demand, while Ethereum held firm near $2,250-$2,345 with longer-term signals staying supportive.
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Institutional activity continued to support confidence, with Bitcoin ETFs seeing strong inflows, regulatory optimism also improved after the U.S. Senate Banking Committee advanced the Clarity Act, WazirX Market Desk further said.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)

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SYDNEY — Australian investors hunting for opportunities in the ASX 200 this year are being urged to focus on a mix of resource giants, resilient banks, healthcare leaders and technology plays as the index eyes fresh records amid recovering commodity prices, expected interest rate relief and steady economic growth.

The benchmark S&P/ASX 200 has shown resilience in 2026 despite global headwinds, supported by strong iron ore and copper demand from China and domestic policy measures aimed at easing cost-of-living pressures. Analysts forecast the index could test 9,000 points by year-end, driven by improving corporate earnings and attractive dividend yields that remain competitive globally.

Here are 10 standout ASX 200 stocks recommended by strategists for 2026, chosen for their growth potential, income reliability and defensive qualities in an uncertain environment.

1. BHP Group (BHP)

The mining behemoth remains a cornerstone pick. Strong iron ore and copper prices, coupled with its diversified portfolio, position BHP for robust cash flows. Analysts highlight its exposure to the green energy transition through copper and nickel, with attractive dividend yields expected to continue.

2. Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA)

Australia’s largest bank benefits from a stabilising housing market and potential rate cuts later in the year. Solid net interest margins and wealth management growth make it a reliable income generator with defensive qualities.

3. Wesfarmers (WES)

The diversified conglomerate, home to Bunnings and Kmart, offers resilience through everyday consumer staples. Its industrial and chemical divisions provide additional earnings diversity in a shifting economy.

4. CSL Limited (CSL)

The biotechnology leader continues expanding globally with strong demand for plasma products and vaccines. Its pipeline of innovative treatments supports long-term growth, making it a favourite among growth-oriented investors.

5. Macquarie Group (MQG)

The investment bank’s global infrastructure and commodities focus aligns well with 2026 themes. Strong performance in green energy and resources banking should drive earnings, while its annuity-style businesses provide stability.

6. Rio Tinto (RIO)

Another mining major with significant iron ore exposure. Rio’s operational efficiency and commitment to low-carbon initiatives position it favourably as global decarbonisation accelerates.

7. Telstra (TLS)

The telecom giant offers defensive income through its reliable dividends and 5G rollout. Expanding into data and digital services provides growth avenues beyond traditional mobile revenue.

8. NEXTDC (NXT)

The data centre operator is well-placed for the AI boom. Surging demand for computing power from hyperscalers and local enterprises supports strong revenue growth projections for the coming years.

9. Aristocrat Leisure (ALL)

The gaming and entertainment company benefits from resilient consumer spending on experiences. Its global portfolio and digital transformation efforts make it a consistent performer.

10. Woodside Energy (WDS)

The energy producer offers exposure to LNG demand in Asia. While transitioning toward renewables, its conventional assets provide strong near-term cash flows and attractive yields.

Why These Stocks Stand Out in 2026

These selections balance cyclical strength with defensive qualities. Mining names like BHP and Rio Tinto capitalise on commodity tailwinds, while banks and Telstra provide income stability. Healthcare and technology plays such as CSL and NEXTDC tap into structural growth themes including an ageing population and digital transformation.

Valuations across the ASX 200 remain reasonable compared to global peers, with many stocks trading on forward price-to-earnings multiples below long-term averages. Dividend yields averaging around 4 percent add appeal for income-focused investors in a still uncertain global environment.

Risks Investors Should Consider

Commodity price volatility remains a key risk for resource stocks, while banks face margin pressure if rate cuts are delayed. Geopolitical tensions, including developments in the Middle East, could influence energy prices and inflation. Domestic factors such as housing affordability and consumer spending will also shape performance.

Analysts recommend diversification and a long-term horizon. While individual stocks may face short-term headwinds, the selected names have strong fundamentals and management teams capable of navigating challenges.

Market Outlook for the Year Ahead

Economists forecast moderate Australian GDP growth supported by lower interest rates and government spending. The RBA is expected to ease policy gradually, providing relief for rate-sensitive sectors. Corporate earnings are projected to grow mid-single digits, with resources and financials leading the way.

The ASX 200’s performance will hinge on global risk appetite, particularly U.S.-China relations and commodity demand from Asia. Positive developments in those areas could drive the index toward new highs.

For retail investors, exchange-traded funds tracking the ASX 200 offer broad exposure, while individual names suit those willing to conduct deeper research. Professional advice is recommended, as past performance does not guarantee future results.

The 2026 investment landscape offers compelling opportunities for those positioned across quality ASX 200 companies. Whether seeking growth, income or stability, the selected stocks represent a cross-section of Australia’s economic strengths and structural tailwinds. As always, thorough due diligence and a disciplined approach remain essential for success in equity markets.