Multiple reports say LeBron James will leave the Los Angeles Lakers and play for another team during the 2026-27 NBA season. According to ESPN, James has informed the Lakers of his plan to continue his career elsewhere, with his agent, Rich Paul, also cited in the reporting. Yahoo Sports and ABC News US both reference ESPN reporting that James will not remain with the Lakers beyond the current stretch of his tenure.
The reports describe the decision as an end to the “LeBron era” in Los Angeles, noting that James has spent eight seasons with the franchise and won an NBA title during that span. One report says James is expected to become an unrestricted free agent this summer, which is presented as part of the context for the offseason discussions.
Across outlets, the central point is consistent: James intends to leave the Lakers and play for a different team in 2026-27, though none of the accounts specify the destination team.
