LeBron James confirmed on Tuesday that he will return for his 24th season in the NBA, but it will not be with the Los Angeles Lakers.
James has informed the Lakers that the franchise can move on without him because he will play elsewhere next season, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul told ESPN’s Shams Charania on Tuesday.
“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,” Lakers governor Jeanie Buss said in a statement. “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.”
James posted to X that it was “truly a honor to wear” the Lakers’ uniform and that, “I hope I made a few proud during my stint.”
Per ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, James has instructed his agent, Rich Paul, to talk with all teams interested in signing him and then inform him of his options so he can make a decision.
The Golden State Warriors are at the forefront of the pursuit of LeBron James, according to NBA insider Marc Stein. On Monday, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the Warriors had a specific goal in mind: to assemble a “big four” consisting of James, Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Anthony Davis, who currently plays for the Washington Wizards. Although reports from ESPN’s Brian Windhorst suggest that a trade for Davis may become less likely, the Warriors remain determined to pursue their objective.
