LeBron James Set to Leave Lakers for 24th NBA Season

LeBron James plans to return for a 24th NBA season, but not with the Los Angeles Lakers. ESPN reported that Rich Paul told Shams Charania James has informed the franchise it can move forward without him because he expects to play elsewhere.

The move would close an eight-year Lakers chapter that included the 2020 championship and several late-career milestones. Jeanie Buss thanked James in a team statement, while James also acknowledged his time in Los Angeles through a post on X.

James has not yet chosen his next team, according to the report. ESPN cited interest around the league, with the Warriors, Cavaliers and Heat among the teams expected to be involved, though those market details remain less settled than the core fact of his Lakers exit.

For the Lakers, the immediate question becomes roster reconstruction. ESPN noted that Bronny James' deal has been fully guaranteed, while the team is projected to have significant cap space and needs at wing and center after LeBron's departure.