LeBron James Becomes Unrestricted Free Agent, Ending Lakers Run

LeBron James is an unrestricted free agent for the first time since 2018 after informing the Los Angeles Lakers last month that he intends to play his 24th NBA season elsewhere. ESPN reported that the move ends his eight-year run with the franchise. The 41-year-old averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds on 51.5 percent shooting during the 2025-26 season.

A source familiar with James' thinking told ESPN that he wants to play "meaningful, competitive basketball" at his next stop. His agent, Rich Paul, said he had spoken to 27 teams about James, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors and Miami Heat. James Harden declined his $42.3 million player option for the 2026-27 season.

The Cleveland Cavaliers are $25.3 million below the first apron and $38 million under the second apron, not including Harden, according to ESPN's Bobby Marks. Cleveland has the $3.9 million veterans minimum exception or the $6.1 million tax midlevel available, depending on Harden's contract. The Denver Nuggets are over the luxury tax and first apron and will probably exceed the second apron.

ESPN reported that the Nuggets have only the $3. James played 11 seasons and 1,001 regular-season and playoff games for the Cavaliers earlier in his career.