LeBron James has finally decided to leave the Los Angeles Lakers in free agency after eight years with the franchise.
James joined the Lakers from the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2018 and won a championship alongside Anthony Davis in 2020.
The 41-year-old has now become an unrestricted free agent and is expected to decide on his next team in the next 24 hours.
Here is everything we know about James’ plans following his astonishing departure from the LA Lakers.
LeBron James’ next team options and projected salary after Lakers departure
James signed a two-year, $101.4 million deal with the Lakers in 2024, including a $52.6m player option for the 2025/26 season.
The four-time champion has now reached the end of his contract, but the Lakers were willing to offer him an extension.
However, James has decided to walk away from Los Angeles ahead of, most likely, the last chapter of his legendary NBA career.
The 41-year-old has been strongly linked with a move to the Golden State Warriors, where he would join Steph Curry and Draymond Green.
James would need to accept a major discount to join the Warriors, taking the Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception of around $15m.
His other options include returns to either the Cavaliers or the Miami Heat, both of which have title aspirations next season.
Entering his 24th season, James will almost definitely sign a short-term contract of either one or two years.
Perhaps a two-year deal, including a player option for the second season, would make the most sense for all parties.
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