It's official. LeBron James will return for an unprecedented 24th season in the NBA, but it won't be with the Los Angeles Lakers. James has informed the Lakers that the franchise can move on without him because he will play elsewhere.
LeBron's decision to leave the Lakers is described as a "happiness-led decision" and "not driven by money." That framing matters. At 41 years old, entering what is likely the final chapter of his career, James is looking for something specific. After taking time to decompress and undergo some self-assessment, James came to the conclusion that he wanted to continue playing "meaningful, competitive basketball."
Eight years in Los Angeles. One championship in the bubble in 2020. Records broken. Last season he averaged 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists in 60 regular season games, then improved in the playoffs, averaging 23.2 points as he led the Lakers past Houston in the first round before falling to Oklahoma City in the second. Not a bad exit résumé. Luka Doncic takes over the keys. New era.
As for where LeBron lands, here is how I see it.
The Golden State Warriors are "at the front of the line in pursuit of LeBron James," with a reported goal to assemble a big four of James, Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and Anthony Davis. The Davis piece looks complicated for now, but the Warriors have serious intent and the pull of a Curry-LeBron pairing in the final act of both careers is hard to ignore. That is the most likely destination from where I am standing.
Cleveland also has interest in a second reunion, with the appeal of the franchise's greatest player finishing his career where it all started. Narratively, that arc is hard to beat. The Cavs already have Donovan Mitchell, James Harden and Evan Mobley. That is a legitimate contender and a real option.
Miami is the one I am ruling out. LeBron already did his ring chasing there. Two titles, four Finals appearances. That chapter is closed and going back would not add anything to the story he is trying to tell.
New York is the wildcard nobody wants to say out loud. The market, the stage, the Garden. But signing with the reigning champion at this point in his career feels like a move that goes against everything LeBron has publicly stood for. Not happening.
No decision has been made yet. James has instructed agent Rich Paul to talk to everyone around the league who is interested and come back to him with what the options are so he can make his decision.
Season 24. The last chapter. Watch closely.
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