LeBron James leaves Lakers as NBA free agency begins
CBS MLB • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 1, 2026, 1:01 PM
Last updated Jul 1, 2026
LeBron James will not return to the Lakers for another season, informing the team of his decision to sign elsewhere. The NBA free agency period has opened, with the Golden State Warriors emerging as favorites to acquire James. The move marks a significant shift in the Lakers' roster as they work to redefine their identity. Meanwhile, Kawhi Leonard has returned to the Raptors in a trade from the Clippers, representing a major move in the offseason.
- •LeBron James announces he will leave the Lakers this summer.
- •Golden State Warriors linked as frontrunners for James.
- •Kawhi Leonard traded back to the Raptors from the Clippers.
- •NBA free agency has opened with potential moves looming.
- •Lakers face a significant roster rebuilding process.
- 1:01 PMCBS MLB — Predicting LeBron James' next move after split from Lakers; NBA free agency winners, losers after Day 1
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