LeBron James is reportedly leaving the Los Angeles Lakers.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, James has informed the Lakers that the franchise can move on without him because he will play elsewhere. Rich Paul, Klutch Sports CEO, told the Lakers on Tuesday.
“LeBron James will continue his NBA career for the 2026-27 season,” Charnia wrote. “And has informed the Los Angeles Lakers that the franchise can move on without him because he will play elsewhere.”
According to Charnia, “the Golden State Warriors were planning to pursue James once the free agency negotiations begins.” Free agency begins Tuesday at 6 p.m. ET.
Draymond Green declined his $27.6 million player option Monday, making a pathway for James. Also, a possible trade with the Washington Wizards for Anthony Davis.
James’ tenure with the Lakers has been nothing short of historic. He cemented his legacy in the purple and gold by delivering the franchise’s 17th NBA Championship in 2020. James was also named Finals MVP—becoming the first player in league history to win the award with three different teams.
Beyond bringing a title back to Los Angeles, James used his time in LA to completely rewrite the NBA record books. It was as a Laker in 2023 that he surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the league’s all-time leading scorer. He later crossed the unprecedented 40,000-point milestone. His accolades in Los Angeles also include leading the NBA in assists during the 2019-20 season. James also led the Lakers to win the inaugural NBA Cup (In-Season Tournament) and its MVP award in 2023, extending his record-breaking run of consecutive All-Star and All-NBA selections well into his 40s.
Additionally, his time in LA featured a historic personal milestone when he shared the court with his son, Bronny James, creating the first active father-son duo in NBA history.