NBA all-time leading scorer LeBron James is set to leave the Los Angeles Lakers after eight seasons, bringing an end to one of the most successful chapters of his illustrious career while confirming he has no plans to retire.
The development was first reported by ESPN on Tuesday, with James’ longtime agent, Rich Paul, confirming that the 41-year-old has informed the Lakers he intends to continue playing in the NBA but will do so with a different franchise for the 2026-27 season.
James’ departure concludes an eight-year spell in Los Angeles that began when he joined the Lakers in 2018. During his tenure, he led the franchise to the 2020 NBA championship inside the league’s COVID-19 “bubble,” earned multiple All-NBA selections, and continued to add to his long list of career milestones.
Widely regarded as one of basketball’s greatest players, James is a four-time NBA champion and the league’s all-time leading scorer. He also made history by becoming the first NBA player to compete alongside his son, Bronny James, in a regular-season game after the Lakers selected Bronny in the 2024 NBA Draft.
According to ESPN, Paul told the Lakers that the organization could move forward without James because he plans to play elsewhere next season. While no destination has been officially announced, speculation has already intensified over potential landing spots, with several teams expected to express interest in acquiring the future Hall of Fame.
The Lakers have not immediately announced James’ replacement, but reports indicate the organization has been informed of his decision. His exit marks the end of a memorable era in Los Angeles, during which he helped restore the franchise to championship success and further cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
