LeBron James will return for a record-extending 24th season but has informed the Los Angeles Lakers that he'll play elsewhere in 2026-27, his agent, Rich Paul, told ESPN's Shams Charania on Tuesday.
Paul recently spoke with Lakers president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka about James' plans to give Los Angeles a head start on free agency, adds Charania.
Los Angeles reportedly expressed a desire to bring James back, but he opted to move on, according to Charania.
James is in "no rush" to make a decision on his next destination, a source told Ramona Shelburne of ESPN.
Lakers governor and minority owner Jeanie Buss later released a statement on social media to thank James for his time with the organization.
"LeBron James is one of the greatest athletes in history," Buss wrote. "We will always be thankful for his eight years with the Lakers - including the title he led us to in 2020 under the toughest imaginable circumstances and the countless records he broke in purple and gold.
"We wish him all the best in the future, both on the court and off. He will always be a cherished part of the Lakers family."
No, THANK YOU! Truly a honor to wear the 💜💛 while trying to continuing the greatness & legacies that came before me! Hope I made a few proud during my stint. 🙏🏾🫡👑 https://t.co/RmQ6uvvgv0
— LeBron James (@KingJames) June 30, 2026
The Golden State Warriors are pursuing James in free agency, and they aren't operating as if an Anthony Davis trade is required to land the four-time MVP, sources told NBA insider Marc Stein. Golden State has greater financial flexibility after forward Draymond Green declined his $27.7-million player option Monday.
The Cleveland Cavaliers are also interested in reuniting with James for a third stint, sources told Prime Video's Chris Haynes. He led the franchise to its first and only title in 2016.
James, the NBA's all-time leading scorer, spent eight seasons with the Lakers, averaging 25.9 points, 7.9 assists, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.2 steals across 479 appearances. He won his fourth Finals MVP in 2020 after guiding Los Angeles to its 17th championship.
The Lakers recently re-signed Austin Reaves to a four-year, $185-million contract, while starting center Deandre Ayton exercised his $8.1-million player option Monday to return for a second season with the club.
