LeBron James is officially done in Los Angeles. For the first time in eight seasons, the Lakers will open a year without the four-time MVP on the roster. He confirmed the move himself Tuesday, responding to the team’s goodbye post on social media with a message that felt both grateful and final.
“No, THANK YOU! Truly a honor to wear the 💜💛 while trying to continuing the greatness & legacies that came before me! Hope I made a few proud during my stint,” James wrote on X, quoting the Lakers’ farewell graphic. The tweet included a crown emoji and a saluting soldier. It arrived just before the free agency period officially opened.
The Lakers had posted a tribute thanking James for his run in purple and gold, a run that included the franchise’s 17th championship in the 2020 bubble. That title, won inside the Orlando campus during the pandemic, is likely the one that cements his legacy in Laker lore. He also became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer while wearing their uniform, passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar last season.
What Comes Next for the 23-Year Veteran
James turns 41 later this year. He’s not retiring. The plan, according to league sources, is to sign with a contender that can offer both a winning culture and a clear path to playing time. Reports have linked him to several teams, but nothing official has been announced yet. (The Lakers have not confirmed his destination either, though they clearly knew this was coming.)
His departure ends a fascinating chapter. James joined LA in 2018 after his second stint in Cleveland, bringing with him the weight of expectations that came from signing with the sport’s most glamorous franchise. The first season was a disaster — he missed the playoffs with a groin injury. Then came the title. Then came the roster chaos, the Russell Westbrook trade, the coaching changes, and the first-round exits.
Through it all, James remained the face of the league. His production never really dipped. He averaged 27 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists last season, numbers that would be career years for most players. But the Lakers couldn’t build a consistent winner around him after 2020. And it sounds like both sides knew it was time.
It’s rare for a player this late in his career to leave on terms this amicable. Most legends either get traded or limp to the finish line on a rebuilding team. James walked out the door with the franchise’s blessing, a championship ring, and a lengthy thank-you note from the organization.
Now the waiting game. Wherever he lands, that team instantly becomes a title favorite. And the Lakers start over without him for the first time since 2016.
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