Topline
NBA star LeBron James will move on from the Lakers this offseason, ESPN first reported, ending his eight-season run with the team ahead of the 2026-27 season as analysts and fans alike speculate where he will finish his historic career.
James has played with the Lakers for eight seasons.
Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images
Key Facts
James informed the Lakers they can move on without him, according to ESPN insider Shams Charania, who cited Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul.
James, who joined the Lakers in 2018, will enter his 24th NBA season this year and extend the all-time record of most seasons played in the league.
The Golden State Warriors are expected to pursue James after free agency opens at 6 p.m. EDT on Tuesday evening, ESPN reported, noting the team’s cap space has opened up after longtime Warriors star Draymond Green declined his $27.6 million player option Monday.
James will turn 42 in December and may take a pay cut if he joins the Warriors, ESPN reported Monday.
The Warriors are speculated as the frontrunners to acquire James, while the Cleveland Cavaliers, where the star began his storied career, have shown interest in bringing James back, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes.
Charania said on ESPN James will be pursuing “happiness” with his next home and money will not be a primary concern.
Crucial Quote
“LeBron James is one of the greatest athletes in history. 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,” Lakers president Jeanie Buss said in a statement. “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.”
Where Will James Play Next Season?
The Warriors could potentially get James with a $15.1 million non-taxpayer midlevel exception, ESPN reported, which would be $37 million less than what he made in the prior season. Decision makers in the Warriors organization have not received an indication they are the “firm LeBron James landing spot,” according to Warriors reporter Anthony Slater, who noted a “belief that they’ll have plenty of appeal, but appears to be some level of recruitment required.” The Cavaliers could make a push for James after James Harden declined his $42.3 million player option for the 2026-27 season, with the star player currently working through a new multiyear deal with Cleveland. The Heat, which recently signed Giannis Antetokounmpo, could pair the power forward with James, and is seen as a potential suitor given James’ familiarity with the franchise. James played for the Heat from 2010 to 2014, contributing to four Finals appearances and two championships.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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