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LeBron James leaves Lakers amid ownership change, future uncertain

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 1:37 PM

Last updated Aug 14, 2026

LeBron James leaves Lakers amid ownership change, future uncertain

Summary

LeBron James announced his departure from the Los Angeles Lakers just weeks prior to the team's recent sale for $12.5 billion to Josh Kushner and Bob Iger. Many speculate that had the sale occurred before James' decision, he may have remained due to potentially better communication with the new owners. The Lakers are now focused on building a roster centered around Luka Doncic, moving on from James and his declining performance. Meanwhile, James will join a strong Philadelphia roster in a favorable conference.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•LeBron James left the Lakers shortly before the team's sale on August 14, 2026.
•The team was purchased for $12.5 billion, marking the second sale in a year.
•Speculation exists that new ownership could have influenced James' decision to stay.
•The Lakers plan to build around Luka Doncic, freeing their roster from James.
•James transitions to a loaded Philadelphia roster in a new conference.

Latest Updates

1:37 PMYahoo Sports — LeBron James’ Lakers Decision Could Have Changed With New Owners

What they're saying

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Former Laker LeBron James left the team early in the offseason, but if he had waited until the team was sold, things may have been different. The post LeBron James’ Lakers Decision Could Have Changed With New Owners appeared first on LA Sports Report.
— Yahoo Sports

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