LeBron James has informed the Los Angeles Lakers that he plans to play for another team in the 2026-27 NBA season. His agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, relayed the message to the team and confirmed details to ESPN reporter Shams Charania.
The 41 year old forward is entering free agency after his time with the Lakers. This move allows the Lakers to move forward without him in their roster planning. James has spent the last eight seasons with the team after joining in 2018.
The news comes as NBA free agency opens. Teams across the league can now pursue James as an unrestricted free agent. Earlier reports had noted ongoing talks between James and the Lakers, but this update shifts the situation.
James remains one of the most accomplished players in NBA history. His decision affects both the Lakers roster building and the broader free agent market.