LeBron James exits Lakers: Luka Doncic, Magic Johnson and Jeanie Buss share emotional tributes
LeBron James is leaving the Los Angeles Lakers after eight seasons, with his agent Rich Paul confirming to ESPN's Shams Charania that James will pursue free agency for the 2026-27 season rather than return to Los Angeles. The news prompted tributes from Lakers governor Jeanie Buss, franchise legends Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and current teammate Luka Doncic, all crediting James for the 2020 championship and his record-breaking run in purple and gold.
LeBron James is leaving the Los Angeles Lakers after eight seasons, with his agent Rich Paul confirming to ESPN's Shams Charania that James will pursue free agency for the 2026-27 season rather than return to Los Angeles. The news prompted tributes from Lakers governor Jeanie Buss, franchise legends Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and current teammate Luka Doncic, all crediting James for the 2020 championship and his record-breaking run in purple and gold.
