LeBron James closes a defining Lakers era
His departure ends an era that delivered a championship and reshaped the Lakers' modern legacy as the NBA icon prepares for his next team.
LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Lakers are entering a new chapter after LeBron James ended his eight-year run with the franchise, bringing one of the most successful eras in team history to a close.
James’ journey began in 2003 when the Cleveland Cavaliers selected the Akron native with the first overall pick in the NBA Draft. After seven seasons with his hometown team, he stunned the basketball world by announcing his move to the Miami Heat during the nationally televised special The Decision. Alongside Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, James helped build one of the NBA’s most dominant teams, winning two championships in four seasons.
LeBron James (#23) during the 2026 NBA Playoffs in Los Angeles on May 11, 2011 at 5:04 PM. Photo: Luke Hales/Getty Images
He later returned to Cleveland and delivered on a promise many thought impossible. In the 2016 NBA Finals, James led the Cavaliers back from a 3-1 series deficit against the Golden State Warriors to capture the franchise’s first NBA championship, cementing his place among basketball’s greatest legends.
James joined the Lakers in 2018 and guided the franchise to the 2020 NBA championship during a season filled with emotion following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Lakers icon Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna Bryant, and seven others.
In February 2023, he surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, adding another milestone to his remarkable resume.
At 41, James leaves behind an extraordinary legacy in Los Angeles. During his final season, he averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds, adding another impressive campaign to a career that has redefined basketball greatness. A 22-time NBA All-Star and four-time NBA champion, James also stands alone as the league’s all-time leader in both games played (1,622) and career points (43,440).
Following his departure, the Lakers paid tribute to the future Hall of Famer in a heartfelt message on X.
“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,” said the Lakers tribute.
With James moving on, the Lakers now turn the page. Luka Don─ìi─ç officially steps into the spotlight as the franchise’s new centerpiece. Since arriving in February 2025, he has steadily emerged as the team’s leader, and James’ exit firmly establishes him as the face of the Lakers’ next era