The Los Angeles Lakers are entering a new era after LeBron James' departure, and one of his longtime teammates had a humorous reaction when he learned the news.

Austin Reaves revealed to the California Post the first message he sent James after finding out the four-time NBA champion was leaving the franchise

"I texted him and told him I was having a great day on the golf course until he ruined it."

Reaves' lighthearted response quickly made the rounds on social media, but it also reflected the close relationship the two developed during their time in L.A. together.

James joined the Lakers in 2018 and helped deliver the franchise's 17th NBA championship during the 2020 season. Reaves arrived as an undrafted rookie in 2021 and steadily developed into one of the team's most reliable players while sharing the floor with the future Hall of Famer.

Over the past several seasons, James became one of Reaves' biggest supporters, frequently praising the guard's basketball IQ, confidence and ability to perform in high-pressure moments. Reaves evolved from a role player into one of LA's primary offensive options, earning increased responsibility each season.

Now, the Lakers will move forward without the NBA's all-time leading scorer.

James remains one of the biggest storylines of the offseason as he weighs where he will play next. Multiple reports have linked him to several contenders, with the Cleveland Cavaliers viewed by many around the league as the frontrunner for a home reunion.

The Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers have also been mentioned as potential landing spots while the 41-year-old considers what could be his record-setting 24th NBA season.

Wherever James ultimately signs, his decision is expected to have a significant impact on the rest of free agency as teams continue shaping their rosters around one of the league's most accomplished players.

For the Lakers, the focus has shifted toward building around Luka Dončić after completing a near-whole roster turnover. The front office has spent the offseason adding depth while positioning the organization for its next chapter without James leading the way.

Reaves is expected to play a major role in that transition after signing the biggest contract for an undrafted free agent in NBA history: four years, $185 million.

After establishing himself as one of the NBA's most efficient guards, the 28-year-old is projected to take on even greater offensive responsibilities alongside Dončić.

His ability to score at all three levels, create for teammates and provide veteran leadership will be critical as LA attempts to remain among the Western Conference contenders.

Although James' departure marks the end of an era, Reaves' playful text message showed there is still plenty of mutual respect between the two. Now, both players will begin new chapters, with James deciding where to continue his legendary career and Reaves helping lead a new-look Lakers team into the future.