LeBron James informed the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday that he will not return for a ninth season. The 41-year-old forward becomes a free agent when the period opens at 6 p.m. ET Tuesday and will play his record 24th NBA season elsewhere.
James spent eight seasons with the Lakers after signing in 2018. He led the team to the 2020 NBA title and became the league's all-time leading scorer while in Los Angeles.
Lakers governor Jeanie Buss thanked James in a statement for his contributions and the records he set in purple and gold. James replied that it was a true honor to wear the Lakers uniform and continue the franchise's legacies.
The Golden State Warriors are viewed as the frontrunners to sign James. Reports indicate the team could also pursue a trade for Anthony Davis to reunite the former teammates alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, who declined his player option this week.
Other teams expected to pursue James include the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat. James averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds last season.
