LeBron James will not return to the Los Angeles Lakers, ending an eight-season run with the franchise as he prepares to continue his NBA career with another team, according to statements released Tuesday by his agent, Rich Paul, and the Lakers.
Paul said James informed the organization early in the free agency period that he intends to play elsewhere, allowing the Lakers to move forward with their offseason plans. James, who will play a record 24th NBA season, has said his priority remains competing for another championship.
The 41-year-old joined the Lakers in 2018 and led the franchise to the 2020 NBA title inside the league’s pandemic bubble. During his tenure, he also became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and continued to add to numerous league records for longevity and production.
The Lakers thanked James for his contributions in a statement, calling his time with the franchise one of the most significant eras in team history and expressing appreciation for his role in delivering the club’s 17th championship. “It was truly a honor to wear the purple and gold. I hope I made a few proud during my stint.”
James has not announced his next destination. Under NBA rules, free agents may negotiate with teams immediately, while contracts can be signed beginning later in the league’s designated signing period.
