LeBron James Free Agency Rumors Tracker: Latest News, Updates After Lakers Star Leaves LA

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LeBron James Free Agency Rumors Tracker: Latest News, Updates After Lakers Star Leaves LA originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

LeBron James is looking for a new team ahead of his 24th NBA season.

On June 30, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul told ESPN's Shams Charania that James informed the Lakers he will not be re-signing with the team. After spending the last eight seasons in Los Angeles, the four-time NBA champion, who won a title with the Lakers in 2020, will now hit the open market as an unrestricted free agent.

Here are the latest updates on James' status as he searches for a landing spot in free agency.

LeBron James free agency rumors tracker​


(All times Eastern)

Wednesday, July 1​


8:50 p.m.: The 76ers have expressed interest in acquiring LeBron James, according to The Athletic's Tony Jones.

4 p.m.:Marc Stein of The Stein Line reported that the Spurs are not expected to pursue LeBron James after signing Tobias Harris in free agency.

2:55 p.m.: The Nuggets have reached out to LeBron James in free agency, according to The Denver Post's Bennett Durando. Denver previously tried to recruit James in the summer of 2018 before he signed with the Lakers.

Tuesday, June 30​


11 p.m.: According to ESPN's Ramona Shelburne, the Warriors "want a commitment" from LeBron James before trying to trade for Anthony Davis.

7:13 p.m.: According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, James' main priority in free agency is finding a team that will give him a "realistic chance at competing for a championship."

4:20 p.m. — James Harden is waiting to sign a new deal with the Cavaliers in order to give the front office more financial flexibility, potentially allowing Cleveland to add LeBron James, according to The Athletic's Joe Vardon.

2:55 p.m. — There is "no rush" for LeBron James to make a decision, according to ESPN's Ramona Shelburne. James and his representatives are expected to speak with multiple teams when free agency officially begins.

2:40 p.m. — LeBron James sent a tweet in response to the statement from Lakers owner Jeanie Buss:

No, THANK YOU! Truly a honor to wear the while trying to continuing the greatness & legacies that came before me! Hope I made a few proud during my stint. https://t.co/RmQ6uvvgv0

— LeBron James (@KingJames) June 30, 2026

1:20 p.m. — During an appearance on "SportsCenter," ESPN's Shams Charania reported that LeBron James is focused on finding the right situation rather than the biggest contract.

"I'm told this is a happiness-led decision for LeBron James," Charania said. "He feels like he needs to find his happiness elsewhere, and wherever he lands in free agency, it will not be driven by money, according to sources."

Charania noted that the Cavaliers, Heat and Warriors are expected to be among the suitors reaching out to James when free agency officially begins.

12:55 p.m. — Lakers owner Jeanie Buss released a statement addressing LeBron James' departure.

"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," Buss said.

"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."

12:35 p.m. — The Cavaliers are interested in another reunion with LeBron James, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes. James previously played for the Cavs from 2003-2010 and 2014-18.

12:15 p.m. — The Warriors are "at the front of the line" in the LeBron James sweepstakes, according to Marc Stein of The Stein Line. Golden State is reportedly "not operating as though it has a mandate" to seek an Anthony Davis trade in addition to its pursuit of James.

12:05 p.m. — Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul told ESPN's Shams Charania that LeBron James informed the Lakers he will not be re-signing with the team. James decided to share his decision with the Lakers before the start of free agency "out of courtesy and appreciation for their run together," per Charania.

LeBron James stats for 2025-26 season​

  • 20.9 points per game
  • 7.2 assists per game
  • 6.1 rebounds per game
  • 1.2 steals per game
  • 0.6 blocks per game
  • 3.0 turnovers per game
  • 33.2 minutes per game (60 games)
  • 51.5 percent shooting
  • 31.7 percent 3-point shooting
  • 73.7 percent free throw shooting

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