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Lakers prepared for LeBron James departure after Luka Doncic trade

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 6, 2026, 3:55 AM

Last updated Jul 6, 2026

Lakers prepared for LeBron James departure after Luka Doncic trade

Summary

LeBron James informed the Lakers that he will not play for them next season, a decision reportedly anticipated by the team. NBA insider Ric Bucher stated that the Lakers have planned for a future without James since acquiring Luka Doncic in a trade last year. Bucher criticized James and his agent, Rich Paul, for claiming multiple teams are interested in him, suggesting otherwise. While James continues to play well at 41, his recent statistics indicate a decline compared to his career averages. The Lakers now focus on building around Doncic following the trade that involved Anthony Davis.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•LeBron James will not play for the Lakers next season.
•Bucher claims the Lakers anticipated James's departure since acquiring Doncic.
•James had averaged 20.9 points per game last season.
•The Lakers acquired Walker Kessler and signed Quentin Grimes and others.
•James's next team remains unconfirmed.

Latest Updates

3:55 AMYahoo Sports — NBA insider rips LeBron James, says Lakers were done with him when they acquired Luka Doncic

What they're saying

"
It’s been nearly a week since LeBron James informed the Lakers he wasn’t going to play for them next season, but apparently, the Lakers were prepared for it. According to...
— Yahoo Sports

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