Los Angeles Lakers’ veteran LeBron James has informed the franchise that he plans to play elsewhere in the 2026-27 season. The upcoming edition will be the 24th season in the NBA for James but it won’t be with the Lakers.

“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.”

As per ESPN sources, Golden State Warriors were one of the teams planning to pursue James once the free agency negotiating window began Tuesday at 6 p.m. ET.

The Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, the other teams James has played for in his career in the past, are also expected to be interested in signing the veteran.

The four-time NBA champion played for the Lakers for eight years, which is his longest stint with any team in the NBA. The 41-year-old veteran won the NBA Championship with the Lakers in the 2020 season.

James was an All-Star last season, averaging 20.9 points on 51.5% shooting, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds.

James saw his record 21-year All-NBA streak break last season as he played in just 60 games after missing the first month because of sciatica, which affected his lower back and right leg.