LeBron James Leaves Los Angeles Lakers After Eight Seasons, Eyes New Team in 2026-27

After eight seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James, 41, has informed the team's management that he will not return for the 2026-27 NBA season, marking the end of a significant chapter in his illustrious career. According to ESPN's Shams Charania, James' agent, Rich Paul, confirmed the star's intention to join a different team next season. This announcement follows reports that the Golden State Warriors are preparing to negotiate with James, potentially forming a lineup featuring Stephen Curry, Anthony Davis, and LeBron himself.

This move is unexpected, as many anticipated James would either continue with the Lakers for a ninth season or retire. Instead, he is set to begin his 24th NBA season. Last season, James' streak of 21 consecutive All-NBA First Team selections ended, partly due to missing the first month with a lower back injury. Nevertheless, he maintained a high level of performance, proving he remains one of the league's most influential players despite his age.

James also ended his record streak of 1,297 consecutive regular-season games scoring at least 10 points, the longest in NBA history. He averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game with a 51.5% shooting rate during the regular season. In the playoffs, he elevated his game, averaging 23.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 6.7 rebounds, leading the Lakers to a first-round victory over the Houston Rockets, who were missing Luka Dončić due to a hamstring injury. The Lakers were later eliminated by the Oklahoma City Thunder.

LeBron James' career achievements include four NBA championships (two with Miami, one with Cleveland, and one with the Lakers), four regular-season MVP awards, four NBA Finals MVPs, 22 All-Star selections (the most in history), three All-Star MVPs, 13 All-NBA First Team honors, and five All-Defensive Team selections, among numerous other accolades. His departure from the Lakers signals a new phase in his legendary career.