LeBron James To Leave Lakers In Upcoming 2026-2027 NBA Season: Report

LOS ANGELES, CA — After eight seasons, one championship ring, and a storied career with the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James has decided to not return to the Lake Show in 2026-2027 season, ESPN reported on Tuesday.

Sources told ESPN the Golden State Warriors will seek out James when the free agency negotiating window begins Tuesday at 6 p.m. ET.

The 41-year-old Lakers forward has played for 23 NBA seasons and led the franchise to its 17th NBA championship during the 2019-2020 season.

Jeanie Buss, president and governor of the Lakers, issued a statement on Tuesday thanking James:

"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."

Per ESPN, James will wrap up his Lakers career ranked in the top 10 in franchise history in points, assists, field goals and 3-pointers.

James' NBA career began when he was drafted out of high school to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

He is a four-time NBA MVP, won four NBA championships, and is a 22-time All-Star, and three-time All-Star Game MVP.

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