In some breaking NBA news, NBA Insider Shams Charania has reported that LeBron James intends to play next NBA season, but not for the Los Angeles Lakers.
LeBron James Leaving Lakers
After eight seasons with the Lakers, James has decided to move on elsewhere. It was reported this offseason that James could have played his last season with the Lakers, as he had the right to test free agency. Rumors around the NBA world have started to fly with rumors that James could be headed to Golden State to play with Stephen Curry. It is also possible that James could return home to play in Cleveland. The Warriors may be the front-runners, and they have already begun positioning themselves to make a run at James’s services. A return to Miami is also not out of the question now with Giannis Antetokounmpo there.
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
Charnia also reported that the Lakers had interest in bringing James back, but ultimately he decided he wanted to go in a different direction with another organization. Even though he will be entering his age-42 season, James undoubtedly still has a lot of high-level ball to play, and he could easily still lead a franchise even past the age of 40. James and his representation will certainly be looking for a team where James can compete for a championship, as he doesn’t have much time left in the back end of his career.
It is also fair to wonder whether his son, Bronny James, will go with him wherever he plays next. Bronny is under contract with the Lakers, but the Lakers could ultimately decide to trade him as well, ridding themselves of anything related to James’ business or basketball.
LeBron’s Lakers Tenure
James finishes his Lakers tenure with a 2020 NBA Championship and Finals MVP, seven All-NBA selections, and eight All-Star appearances. The Lakers advanced to the second round of the playoffs this season, only to be eliminated by the Oklahoma City Thunder. James would have only spent a season and a half playing next to superstar guard Luka Doncic.
Main Image: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
