LeBron James to Leave Lakers, Plans 24th NBA Season Elsewhere

LeBron James has informed the Los Angeles Lakers that he will not return for a ninth season with the franchise and plans to play a record-extending 24th NBA season elsewhere, according to multiple reports. James becomes an unrestricted free agent, ending an eight-year tenure in Los Angeles that included the 2020 NBA championship. His future team remains undecided as multiple franchises express interest.

Career and Season Performance

James, 41, completed his 23rd NBA season. During the 2025-26 regular season, he averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game across 60 games, marking his lowest scoring average since his rookie season. He played approximately 33 minutes per game.

James holds NBA records as the all-time scoring leader and for most regular-season games played. He is a four-time NBA champion, four-time MVP, and 22-time All-Star. He has been named to All-NBA teams 21 times and is ranked fourth in career assists and 23rd in rebounds.

Playoff Results

The Los Angeles Lakers finished the regular season as the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference. They defeated the Houston Rockets in the first round of the playoffs. The Lakers were then swept in the second round by the Oklahoma City Thunder, losing Game 4 by a score of 115-110.

Lakers guard Luka Dončić did not play in the playoffs due to a hamstring injury sustained near the end of the regular season.

Statements on Future

Following the playoff elimination, James stated he had not decided whether he would return for a 24th season. He indicated he would take time to discuss his future with his family before making a decision.

"I've done it all. I've seen it all. Just being able to compete and trying to win championships, I think that's a motivating factor."
— LeBron James, May 2025

Contract and Free Agency Status

James' contract, valued at $52.6 million for the 2025-26 season, has expired. He becomes an unrestricted free agent. The NBA's free agency negotiation window opened on June 30 at 6:00 PM ET. James can negotiate with teams immediately but cannot sign a contract until the offseason moratorium lifts on July 6.

According to reports from ESPN's Shams Charania, James spoke with Lakers president Rob Pelinka before free agency began "out of courtesy and appreciation for their run together."

Lakers Position and Statements

Lakers president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka stated at his end-of-season press conference that the team would welcome James back if he chooses to re-sign. Pelinka said the organization would give James time to decide his next steps.

Lakers governor Jeanie Buss released a statement:

"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. We wish him all the best in the future, both on the court and off."

James responded to Buss' statement on social media, expressing gratitude for his time with the Lakers:

"It was an honour to wear the colours of the Lakers while continuing the greatness & legacies that came before me!"

The Lakers' focus has shifted to building around Luka Dončić, who was acquired in February 2025.

Potential Destinations

Multiple teams have expressed interest in signing James:

• Golden State Warriors: According to Marc Stein, the Warriors are "at the front of the line in pursuit of LeBron James." ESPN's Shams Charania reported that the Warriors aimed to assemble a group including James, Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Anthony Davis. However, ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported that a trade for Davis is now less likely.

• Cleveland Cavaliers: According to Chris Haynes, the Cavaliers have interest in a reunion with James. James is the Cavaliers' all-time leader in points, rebounds, assists, and steals. Cavaliers player James Harden declined his $42.3 million player option to negotiate a new contract.

• Other teams: The Miami Heat and San Antonio Spurs have also been mentioned as potential destinations.

Draymond Green declined his $27.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, a move reported to potentially facilitate a James acquisition.

Career History

James began his NBA career with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003 after being selected first overall in the NBA draft. He played for Cleveland from 2003-2010, the Miami Heat from 2010-2014 (winning two championships), and returned to Cleveland from 2014-2018 (winning one championship). He joined the Lakers as a free agent in 2018, leading them to the 2020 NBA championship.

His eight seasons with the Lakers represent the longest tenure with any single franchise in his career. As a Laker, James averaged 25.9 points, 7.9 assists, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game, was an eight-time All-Star and seven-time All-NBA selection.

James played alongside his son Bronny James, a Lakers guard, during the 2025-26 season.

Tribute in Cleveland

During the regular season, James received a tribute video from the Cleveland Cavaliers during a game at Rocket Arena. The tribute included footage from the Cavaliers' 2016 championship run and their first finals appearance in 2007. James was observed wiping tears after watching the video.

The Cavaliers defeated the Lakers 129-99 in that game. James recorded 11 points, five assists, and six turnovers.