LeBron James’ departure from the Los Angeles Lakers was driven by his desire to choose his next basketball situation, but his agent Rich Paul suggested the decision also reflected a broader reality about the relationship between NBA stars and franchises.
Speaking to ESPN, Paul said James’ move was about controlling the final chapter of his career rather than remaining committed to an organization that might not share the same level of loyalty. “There’s no loyalty in business,” Paul said, comparing NBA decisions to a blackjack game where players must make moves based on their own interests.
The comments come after James left the Lakers following eight seasons with the franchise. The 41-year-old forward remained productive in the 2025-26 season, averaging 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds over 60 games while shooting 51.5% from the field.
James helped the Lakers win the 2020 NBA championship and became the all-time leading scorer, but Los Angeles entered a new phase in 2026 by building around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. The Lakers finished the 2025-26 regular season with a 53-29 record, winning the Pacific Division, before being swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals.
The Lakers’ offseason strategy centered on maintaining their new core rather than extending the James era. Reaves signed a four-year, $185 million maximum contract after averaging 23.0 points and 5.5 assists, while Doncic remained the centerpiece of the franchise’s future.
Los Angeles also made a major investment in the frontcourt by acquiring Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz in a sign-and-trade. The Lakers sent two unprotected first-round picks and two pick swaps to secure Kessler, who signed a four-year, $130 million contract to become their defensive anchor.
Paul’s comments suggest James viewed free agency as an opportunity to find a team fully aligned with his goals. ESPN reported that the move was about James “making his own luck” and choosing an environment where he could fully commit to basketball.
James ultimately joined the Philadelphia 76ers, creating a new championship push alongside Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Jaylen Brown. Philadelphia entered the offseason after a 45-37 regular season and a second-round playoff exit, then reshaped its roster by acquiring Brown from the Boston Celtics while adding James to its veteran core.
