LeBron James has officially become the biggest name on the market. As the NBA free agency negotiating window opened, James informed the Los Angeles Lakers that he would not be returning for a ninth season with the franchise.
His departure ends an eight-year run in Los Angeles that delivered a championship and several historic milestones.
LeBron acknowledged his time with the Lakers in a message posted to social media.
“Truly a honor to wear the (purple and gold) while trying to continuing the greatness & legacies that came before me! Hope I made a few proud during my stint,” James said.”
The four-time MVP helped deliver the Lakers’ 17th championship during the 2020 season and later became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer while wearing purple and gold. The organization also made several moves during his tenure, including drafting Bronny James and hiring JJ Redick as head coach.
Attention has now shifted toward where James will play next season.
James has instructed Rich Paul to gauge the market before making a decision, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.
James reportedly wants his agent “to talk with teams around the league and learn what everyone’s interests are so he can make an informed decision,” according to McMenamin.
The Golden State Warriors remain one of the most discussed possibilities. The organization has reportedly explored scenarios involving both James and Anthony Davis, although ESPN’s Marc J. Spears reported that Washington has no interest in moving Davis.
If Davis remains unavailable, Golden State could still pursue James alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green while awaiting Jimmy Butler’s recovery from a torn ACL.
Another potential destination is Cleveland. LeBron began his career with the Cavaliers after being selected first overall in the 2003 NBA Draft and later returned to deliver the franchise’s first championship in 2016. Cleveland reached the Eastern Conference Finals this season and already features Donovan Mitchell while also planning to retain James Harden.
Miami has also emerged as a possible landing spot. LeBron won two championships during his four-year stint with the Heat and could potentially reunite with a contender built around Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo.
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