LeBron James to Leave Lakers: Future Uncertain After Playoff Exit
"I don't know. Honestly. It's obviously still fresh from losing."
— LeBron James on whether he will return for a 24th NBA season
Season Conclusion
The Los Angeles Lakers' 2025-26 season ended with a 115-110 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday, completing a four-game sweep in the Western Conference semifinals.
The Lakers entered the playoffs as the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference. They defeated the Houston Rockets in the first round before being swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder, who remain undefeated in the postseason. Luka Dončić missed the playoffs due to a hamstring injury sustained near the end of the regular season. Guard Austin Reaves also missed time due to injury.
James averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds during the regular season—his lowest scoring average since his rookie year. He played in 60 games, missing time due to sciatica and other injuries. James was not named to an All-NBA team for the first time in 22 seasons. He became the oldest player to record a triple-double and surpassed Robert Parish for most regular-season games played.
In the series-clinching loss, James recorded 24 points and 12 rebounds. The Lakers were eliminated after winning 16 of 18 games late in the regular season before injuries to Dončić and Reaves.
James' Statements on Future
Following the playoff elimination, James stated he is unsure whether he will return for a 24th NBA season.
"I left everything I could on the floor. I'll take time to recalibrate and look over the season and see what's best for my future."
James emphasized the importance of maintaining his love for the process of preparing and playing, rather than the outcome. He stated he will take time to discuss with his family before making a decision.
When asked about retirement, James stated:
"I don't think I've come out as like, 'Oh, retirement is coming.' With my future, I don't know, obviously... I got a lot of time."
During a regular-season game in Cleveland in March 2026, James acknowledged the possibility that it could be his final game at that arena. "Because it could be [my last season]. I haven't made a decision on the future, but it very well could be," he said at the time.
Decision to Leave the Lakers
According to multiple reports, James informed the Lakers' front office that he will not re-sign with the team. The announcement was communicated through his agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, ahead of the free agency negotiation window opening on June 30.
James' contract, valued at $52.6 million for the 2025-26 season, expires this summer, making him an unrestricted free agent.
Lakers team president Rob Pelinka said the organization would give James time to decide his next steps. Pelinka stated the team would welcome James back if he chose to re-sign.
Lakers governor Jeanie Buss issued a statement:
"LeBron James is one of the greatest athletes in history. We will always be grateful 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. We wish him all the best in the future, both on the court and off."
James responded to Buss' statement on social media, expressing gratitude for his time with the Lakers.
Laker Tenure and Career Achievements
James joined the Lakers as a free agent in 2018 and spent eight seasons with the team, the longest tenure with any single franchise in his career. During his time in Los Angeles, he:
- Led the Lakers to the 2020 NBA championship
- Became the NBA's all-time leading scorer
- Averaged 25.9 points, 7.9 assists, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game as a Laker
- Was an eight-time All-Star and seven-time All-NBA selection with the team
Overall, James is a four-time NBA champion, four-time MVP, and 22-time All-Star. He is the NBA's all-time scoring leader, ranked fourth in assists, and 23rd in rebounds. He holds records for most minutes played and total wins. His career includes stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers (2003-2010, 2014-2018) and Miami Heat (2010-2014), where he won two championships.
James also played alongside his son, Bronny James, who was a Lakers guard during the 2025-26 season.
Potential Destinations
Multiple teams have expressed interest in signing James as a free agent. The free agency negotiation window opens June 30 at 6 p.m. ET, and James can sign a contract after the moratorium lifts on July 6.
Golden State Warriors
According to multiple reports, the Golden State Warriors are considered frontrunners. Reports indicate the Warriors aim to assemble a group including James, Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Anthony Davis. Draymond Green declined his $27.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, which has been interpreted by some as a move to facilitate a potential James acquisition. However, one report noted that a trade for Davis is now considered less likely.
Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavaliers have expressed interest in a second reunion with James. James is the Cavaliers' all-time leader in points, rebounds, assists, and steals. Cavaliers player James Harden declined his $42.3 million player option to negotiate a new contract.
Other Teams
Other teams mentioned as potential destinations include the Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs, Los Angeles Clippers, and New York Knicks.
Factors Influencing Decision
James has stated that competing for championships is his primary motivation. According to reports, James' decision is based on personal happiness rather than financial considerations.
James' net worth is estimated at $1.4 billion by Forbes. He has indicated he may accept a reduced contract if it allows the team to acquire targeted free agents.
Lakers coach JJ Redick described James' career as "the greatest of any NBA player." Redick stated the team wants the core of Dončić, Reaves, and James to remain together.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander commented on James' performance, noting his effectiveness despite his age.