LeBron James Set to Leave Lakers After Eight Seasons, Free Agency Awaits

LeBron James is set to bring his successful eight-year spell with the Los Angeles Lakers to an end after reportedly informing the franchise that he plans to play for a different team during the 2026-27 NBA season.

According to multiple reports citing Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, the NBA legend has yet to decide on his next destination but is expected to explore his options once the league’s free agency period begins. James can officially begin discussions with interested teams after 6 p.m. ET on Tuesday, while he will be eligible to sign with a new club once the NBA’s offseason moratorium is lifted on July 6.

James joined the Lakers as a free agent in 2018 and went on to enjoy one of the most successful spells of his career. Over 479 regular-season games, the NBA’s all-time leader in points, minutes, games played and seasons played averaged 25.9 points, 7.9 assists and 7.7 rebounds. He also guided the Lakers to their 17th NBA championship in 2020, earning Finals MVP honours in the process.

Lakers governor Jeanie Buss paid tribute to James in a statement, thanking him for his contribution to the franchise.

“LeBron James is one of the greatest athletes in history,” Buss said. “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.”

Golden State has emerged as one of the possible destinations for the four-time NBA champion. Warriors forward Draymond Green recently declined his $27.6 million player option, a move he said was intended to give the franchise greater flexibility in shaping its roster.

“Personally, I’m always willing to work with the team on whatever is best, especially at this point in my career,” Green said on his podcast, adding that he has always prioritised the organisation’s interests during his 14-year stay with the Warriors.

James shares close relationships with Green, Stephen Curry and Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, having faced Golden State in four NBA Finals while representing Cleveland.

The upcoming campaign will be James’ record-breaking 24th NBA season. The league’s oldest active player, who turns 42 in December, also made history by becoming the first NBA player to share the court with his son after Bronny James joined the Lakers.