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Magic Johnson urges Lakers to decide on LeBron James before draft

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 5:00 PM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

Magic Johnson urges Lakers to decide on LeBron James before draft

Summary

Magic Johnson emphasized that the Los Angeles Lakers must resolve LeBron James' future before the NBA Draft on June 23. With the four-time champion set to enter unrestricted free agency, Johnson highlighted the urgency of this decision to align with the team’s offseason plans. James has been linked to multiple teams, including the Golden State Warriors and Cleveland Cavaliers, who can negotiate with him starting June 30. Johnson stated that clarity on James’ decision is crucial for the Lakers to pursue other free agents effectively as they navigate a competitive Western Conference.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•LeBron James becomes an unrestricted free agent on June 30.
•Magic Johnson calls for a decision before the NBA Draft on June 23.
•The Lakers face pressure to secure offseason moves amid a competitive conference.

Latest Updates

5:00 PMYahoo Sports — Magic Johnson Says Lakers Must Make LeBron James Decision Before NBA Draft

What they're saying

"
Now that the NBA Finals are over, the offseason officially begins. The Los Angeles Lakers have some big decisions to make this summer, and one of the biggest questions going into the offseason if whether NBA legend LeBron James will return to the Lakers next season. The four-time NBA champion is set to become an […] The post Magic Johnson Says Lakers Must Make LeBron James Decision Before NBA Draft appeared first on LA Sports Report.
— Yahoo Sports

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