LOS ANGELES (CNS) – The LeBron James era in Los Angeles came to an end today, with the NBA all-time scoring leader planning to leave the team and play elsewhere for his record 24th season in the league.
James’ agent, Rich Paul, told ESPN that James informed the Lakers of his decision to move on for the 2026-27 season. Speculation had circulated earlier that James, 41, might retire.
There was no immediate word on where James will go, but early speculation has the Golden State Warriors as a top contender to land the veteran superstar.
Lakers President/Governor/Co-owner Jeanie Buss issued a statement saying, “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. He will always be a cherished part of the Lakers family.”
A four-time NBA Most Valuable Player, James has won four NBA championships with three different teams — twice with the Miami Heat, once with the Cleveland Cavaliers and once with the Lakers. He was named the NBA Finals MVP in each of those championship runs.
James, now 41, is a 22-time All-Star and three-time All-Star Game MVP. Next season will be James’ 24th in the league, an NBA record.
He began his career out of high school with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He joined the Lakers in 2018.