LeBron James has notified the Los Angeles Lakers that he plans to continue his career with another franchise when the 2026-27 NBA season begins, according to ESPN insider Shams Charania, who cited Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul.
The four-time NBA champion, 41, spent eight seasons in Los Angeles and guided the club to the 2020 title. His decision, delivered shortly after the Lakers’ playoff exit, clears the way for the team’s front office to proceed without him. Sources told ESPN that Lakers president Rob Pelinka and Paul held a brief conversation about James’s plans before the announcement.
Strong finish at age 41
In 60 regular-season games last year, James averaged 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists and 1.2 steals while shooting 51.5 percent from the field and 31.7 percent from beyond the arc. Despite his age, he maintained All-Star production and appeared in his 23rd NBA campaign.
Next stop undecided
League executives view the Golden State Warriors as a leading contender for James, partly because the club has pursued him in recent weeks and explored acquiring former Lakers teammate Anthony Davis to bolster its pitch. Golden State could offer the mid-level exception, estimated at roughly $15 million per year. A return to the Cleveland Cavaliers remains another possibility, likely through a sign-and-trade agreement.
Lakers turn the page
Los Angeles is expected to build around Luka Doncic as a new era begins. James’s time with the franchise started in 2018, when he signed as a free agent after calling for a fresh championship push in Southern California. Reflecting on his tenure following this year’s elimination, he cited the 2020 championship inside the NBA’s Orlando bubble as his favorite Lakers moment, saying it fulfilled his goal of restoring the organization’s winning tradition.
James now heads to free agency in search of the team where he will likely conclude one of the most decorated careers in league history.
Source: LakersNation.com
