LeBron James informs Lakers he plans to play elsewhere in 2026-27: Report
James will enter free agency after eight seasons in Los Angeles, where he averaged 20.9 points and helped the Lakers win the 2020 title.
- On Tuesday, LeBron James informed the Lakers he will play elsewhere for the 2026-27 season, a development first reported by ESPN reporter Shams Charania citing Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul.
- The 41-year-old James played 60 games last season, remaining an All-Star while averaging 20.9 points and 6.1 rebounds per game despite health challenges.
- Draymond Green declined his $27.6 million player option Monday, opening salary cap flexibility for the Golden State Warriors to pursue James.
- Sources told Charania the Warriors plan to pursue James, potentially facilitating a trade with the Washington Wizards for Anthony Davis to reunite former Lakers teammates.
- During the postseason, James upped his playing time to 38.4 minutes per game and led the Lakers to a first-round win over the Houston Rockets, despite his 21-year All-NBA streak ending.
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333 Articles
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