LeBron James on Tuesday made his intentions clear about his future in the league as the four-time NBA champion, who became an unrestricted free agent after the 2025-26 season, will be back, just with a new team. But it seems Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy wasn’t happy about the news drop for a unique reason.
Rich Paul, James’ agent and the CEO of Klutch Sports, confirmed to ESPN that James was ready to move on from the Los Angeles Lakers before next season, according to analyst Shams Charania on X:
“BREAKING: LeBron James will continue his NBA career for the 2026-27 season and has informed the Los Angeles Lakers that the franchise can move on without him because he will play elsewhere, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul tells ESPN.”
Meanwhile, Dave Portnoy launched his new book, “Cancel Me If You Can,” on Tuesday, the same day James announced his decision to continue his storied NBA career. When Portnoy came across the big news fans had been waiting to hear, he wasn’t happy with the timing. He reshared the post on X and wrote:
“Always gotta make it about himself. I’m moving books over here!”
While the four-time MVP has promised to take the floor for one more season, extending his record to 24 campaigns, there is still no clarity about his next destination. The Golden State Warriors are reportedly in talks with James.
“We wish him all the best in the future,” Lakers Governor Thanks LeBron James For His Lakers Stint
LeBron James has shocked the NBA world with his decision to move on from the Lakers. He brought the city another title in 2020 and has broken several records while donning purple and gold. It’s time for him to try and win another ring at another location next season.
The Lakers’ governor, Jeanie Buss, shared her official statement on James leaving the Lakers:
“LeBron James is one of the greatest athletes in history. We will always be thankful for his eight years with the Lakers — including the title he led us to in 2020 under the toughest imaginable circumstances and the countless records he broke in purple and gold. We wish him all the best in the future, both on the court and off. He will always be a cherished part of the Lakers family.”
The Lakers front office will now look to strengthen their frontcourt, which needs some good pieces if the team wants to make a title run. James’ absence will create a big gap in the team’s leadership, and a lot of that responsibility will now fall on Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
READ MORE: LeBron James Could Receive Massive Warriors Offer Today As Golden State Chases Dream Team: Report
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