Lakers and LeBron James part ways after eight seasons, one title together

LeBron's Lakers era ends after eight seasons.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jun 301 min read

LAL

Los Angeles LakersNBA

The Lakers and LeBron James thanked each other after 8 seasons together that resulted in a 2020 Championship, Finals MVP

What happened: The Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James exchanged mutual thank-yous closing out eight seasons together, a partnership that delivered a 2020 NBA championship and a Finals MVP. The acknowledgment marks the end of James' tenure in Los Angeles.

Why it matters: James' departure removes a foundational star who anchored the franchise for eight years and brought it a title, reshaping the Lakers' direction heading into the 2026-27 season. It also opens a marquee free-agency question, as James enters free agency with his next destination unresolved.

By the numbers: Eight seasons in Los Angeles, highlighted by the 2020 NBA championship and James' Finals MVP. No recent data on terms of separation.

What to watch: Watch where James signs next and how the Lakers reshape their roster around his absence ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Sources

@NBAonPrime Jun 30, 5:11 PM ET

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Lakers and LeBron James part ways after eight seasons, one title together

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