LeBron James Notifies Lakers He Will Play Elsewhere in 2026-27
lebron-james-to-depart-lakers-in-2026-27
Los Angeles — LeBron James has decided to extend his career to a record 24th NBA season in 2026-27, but the veteran forward told the Los Angeles Lakers he will not return to the team, according to agent Rich Paul.
Paul said on Monday that James informed the organization it can “move on without him” because he plans to sign with another club next year. The message was relayed to ESPN’s Shams Charania, who reported the news on Twitter.
James, 41, joined the Lakers in 2018 and helped the franchise capture the 2020 NBA championship. His impending departure will end a tenure that included multiple All-Star selections and broke the league’s all-time scoring record.
The announcement comes one day before the start of free agency, giving the Lakers time to adjust their roster plans for the 2026-27 campaign.
Source: Hoops Rumors
