LeBron James Set to Leave Lakers: Will Cleveland Cavaliers Lose Him Again?
**LeBron James will not return to the Los Angeles Lakers for a 24th NBA season**, according to Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, who confirmed the decision to ESPN’s Shams Charania on **Tuesday, July 13, 2026**. The four-time champion’s departure from L.A. leaves the Cleveland Cavaliers as one of his top targets, but his final choice could strain his relationship with the franchise once more.**
James made his decision clear at the start of free agency, telling the Lakers he would not re-sign. The move ends a 13-year run with the franchise, where he became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Paul’s confirmation removes any lingering doubt: James is shopping for his next destination, and the Lakers are officially out of the picture.
Cleveland head coach Kenny Atkinson dropped a major hint during the **NBA Summer League on July 10, 2026**. When asked about the team’s offseason plans, he referenced the free agency drama directly: *“You guys know there’s a little free agency thing going on right now. That could be our real jump, and you know what I’m talking about. That’s exciting too.”* The subtext was unmistakable-James remains a priority.
Cavaliers fans still smart from James’ first exit in 2010, when he joined the Miami Heat. This time, expectations are higher: Cleveland won its first NBA title in 2016 with James as the centerpiece. But if he leaves again, the backlash could be fierce. *“If he doesn’t pick Cleveland, some people are going to be really mad at him,”* said 92.3 The Fan’s Ken Carman. *“We have no other choice.”*
James is reportedly weighing six teams, with Cleveland, the Lakers’ rivals, still in the mix. His focus remains on joining a championship contender-any decision will hinge on roster fit and long-term goals. If he skips Cleveland, it could signal he’s eyeing a final run elsewhere, adding another layer to the NBA’s biggest offseason saga.
The clock is ticking. James’ next move will reshape the league-and Cleveland’s future hangs in the balance.