As LeBron James looks to play one last NBA season, he's informed the Los Angeles Lakers of a key decision.
LeBron James will play a record 24th NBA season in 2026-27, but it won't be for the Los Angeles Lakers.
James, who will turn 42 next season, spent the last eight seasons in Los Angeles, where he won the Finals in 2020. In Hollywood, he started to lose some of his athleticism, but developed into one of the league's best passers and floor generals, leading the NBA in assists in that 2020 campaign.
Heading into the offseason, the Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers were leaders in the clubhouse to sign James, for obvious reasons. However, with free agency just hours away, LeBron decided he would look far and wide for his next, and probably last, team.
Spurs Meet All of James' Criteria
There has been speculation that James did not enjoy playing third fiddle for parts of last season behind Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, although as long as his team is winning, he's really ready to play any role.
The Spurs have the financial means to offer him a one-year contract, and he would immediately be the second-best player on the roster behind Victor Wembanyama. James' processing and leadership lend themselves well to his having the ball in his hands. He would play a point-forward role for the Spurs.
As always, winning a ring remains his top priority, and James' skillset could be the missing piece the Spurs need in the frontcourt.
"LeBron knows the Lakers are building for the future, and he also wants to compete for championships,” James' agent, Rich Paul, told the Athletic. “We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive, and want what’s best for him."
LeBron has long praised the Spurs and Gregg Popovich. While Pop isn't calling the shots on the sidelines anymore, he is active in the front office and gets the final say on almost every basketball-related move.
The Golden State Warriors have also been linked to James, although for the purposes of going out on top, the Spurs have a much better sales pitch.
