For the previous couple of years, LeBron James’ identify has popped up as somebody who is perhaps on the transfer within the NBA off-season. But few really believed the longer term Hall of Famer would truly bolt from the Los Angeles Lakers.
Now, it seems he truly received’t be enjoying for the Lakers in 2026-27. The supply: The Lakers.
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“LeBron James is one of the greatest athletes in history. We will always be thankful for his eight years with the Lakers – including the title he led us to in 2020 under the toughest imaginable circumstances and the countless records he broke in purple and gold,” the Lakers posted on X. “We wish him all the best in the future, both on the court and off. He will always be a cherished part of the Lakers family.”
OK then.
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James, generally considered one of the Top 3 NBA players of all time, seeks a new team for his 24th NBA season. He leaves after eight seasons in L.A. as the NBA’s all-time leader in points scored, games and seasons played, and is a 22-time All-Star, also a record. He’s led the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers to championships. Now it seems he’ll attempt to win his subsequent title elsewhere.
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The Golden State Warriors have been sturdy favorites to be that crew, however on Monday they agreed to a two-yr, $40 million take care of Kristaps Porzingis.
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According to ESPN salary cap expert Bobby Marks, the team can no longer even afford to offer James a $15 million mid-level exception that was considered the only way LeBron could join a team with the second-highest payroll in the league.
Still, the NBA’s soft salary cap is more an idea than a hard line. Golden State reportedly was working on a masterplan that includes Anthony Davis from the Wizards and LeBron.
Or maybe James and his good buddy Draymond Green, who just opted out of his deal with the Warriors, plan to be a package deal elsewhere.
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The saga is just beginning, though NBA free agency period officially begins at 6 p.m. ET on June 30. Signings can begin on July 6.
Where Will LeBron James Play?
It’s now or never to win one more ring for the 41-year-old James. So where else could he go?
Cleveland Cavaliers: It’s the team in his home state, the team that drafted him, the team he delivered a championship to before going to Miami. The team is in the mix in the East, advancing to the conference finals, so it offers a spot to compete.
New York Knicks: LeBron has conquered the west coast, how about trying his hand at NYC and joining the reigning NBA champions? Then again, the Knicks just won the title without him.
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Miami Heat: The Heat acquired Giannis Antetokounmpo to pair with Bam Adebayo. It’s extremely possible Pat Riley and the Heat brass are seeing what it could take to being King James again to South Beach.
Minnesota Timberwolves: The Wolves are thought-about an up-and-coming crew with a real chief in Anthony Edwards, and talented depth. Adding someone like James, who can do it all but perhaps at fewer minutes (and perhaps a no-nonsense forward like Green) pushes them to the elusive next level.
Related: LeBron James Leaving Lakers? Not As Impossible As It Sounds
This story was initially revealed by Lindys Sports on Jun 30, 2026, the place it first appeared within the NBA part. Add Lindys Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.