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LeBron James departs Lakers after Russell Westbrook trade fallout

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 2, 2026, 11:27 PM

Last updated Jul 2, 2026

LeBron James departs Lakers after Russell Westbrook trade fallout

Summary

LeBron James has decided to leave the Los Angeles Lakers, informing the franchise he will sign elsewhere in free agency. Tensions between James and the Lakers reportedly began following the unsuccessful trade for Russell Westbrook in July 2021, which James had a hand in orchestrating. Westbrook's tenure with the Lakers included poor performance and scrutiny, culminating in a trade to the Utah Jazz in February 2023. Despite the apparent respect between both parties, the relationship has soured over the years, particularly after missing the playoffs in the 2021-22 season.

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By the Numbers

•LeBron James informs Lakers of decision to leave in free agency.
•Tensions began after Russell Westbrook's trade in July 2021.
•James believed Westbrook would enhance the team's championship chances.
•Westbrook struggled with performance and was traded to the Jazz in February 2023.
•The Lakers missed the playoffs in the 2021-22 season.

Latest Updates

11:27 PMYahoo Sports — LeBron James’ Lakers rift stemmed from failed Russell Westbrook saga

What they're saying

"
LeBron James’ tenure with the Lakers is over after he informed the NBA franchise he’d spent the past eight seasons with that he’ll sign elsewhere in free agency. While both...
— Yahoo Sports

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