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It didn’t take LeBron James long to decide on his future with the Los Angeles Lakers. Hours before the start of the NBA free agency period, James informed the franchise that he would not return to Tinseltown next season, according to ESPN senior NBA insider Shams Charania.
LeBron Informs Lakers of His Departure
Per Charania, James does intend to play at least a 24th NBA season, as he has no plans to retire. The next order of business will be deciding which team he will play for in 2027.
BREAKING: LeBron James will continue his NBA career for the 2026-27 season and has informed the Los Angeles Lakers that the franchise can move on without him because he will play elsewhere, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul tells ESPN. pic.twitter.com/zzVk6xUVF1
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2026
James’ next team could likely be the last franchise he will play for. He will be 42 at the conclusion of next season. And even as an elder statesman, any team would be glad to add his services. And some teams have already begun to throw their hat in the ring to acquire the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.
Who Will James Play for Next Season
One of the franchises that has expressed interest in acquiring LeBron is the team that drafted him, the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavs showed flashes of brilliance. Making it to the Eastern Conference Finals last season. And it looked promising in Game 1 vs. the Knicks when they led by 22 points in the fourth quarter. But a blown lead ultimately led to them being swept by the eventual champs. Adding a veteran who has won at the highest level like James could be the missing piece to make them legit contenders.
Another one of James’ former teams that could be in on the sweepstakes is the Miami Heat. After acquiring former NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster trade earlier this month, the addition of James could give them one of the more terrifying frontcourts in the league next season.
The Golden State Warriors are by far the most intriguing team tied to the James sweepstakes. Steph Curry and LeBron have long been rivals. But forming a partnership at this stage of their careers could be beneficial to both. Both have shown to still be playing at a high level on the back nine of their careers. But that high level has not equaled much success for either of them in the postseason as of late. Joining forces could be the answer to both players winning their fifth championship.
Buckle up, the LeBron lottery is officially underway.
