LeBron James not returning to Lakers, will choose new NBA team: Report | Basketball News
LeBron James to Depart Los Angeles Lakers for New Team
Published June 30, 2026
LeBron James has informed the Los Angeles Lakers that he will not return for a ninth season with the team, according to Rich Paul, CEO of Klutch Sports.
James, 41, has spent the last eight seasons with the Lakers, notably contributing to the team’s 2020 NBA championship victory.
On Monday, reports indicated that the Golden State Warriors are poised to make a strong effort to acquire James. This comes after Draymond Green declined his player option, allowing the Warriors to free up cap space for potential roster additions.
The 22-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion recently wrapped up his record-setting 23rd season, finishing as the league’s all-time leading scorer. This season, James averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds, while also establishing records for the most games played (1,622) and total points (43,440) in NBA history.
