Most NBA Coaches, Scouts, Executives Expect LeBron James To Be With Los Angeles Lakers In 2026-27

Most NBA coaches, scouts and executives expect LeBron James to be with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2026-27, according to ESPN.

James, 40, is the oldest active player in the NBA. He turns 41 in December and becomes an unrestricted free agent next offseason for the first time since 2018.

ESPN polled 20 coaches, scouts and executives about where they think James will be in 2026-27. Here’s how the voting went down:

Los Angeles Lakers: 7

Retired: 5

Cleveland Cavaliers: 4

Golden State Warriors: 2

Dallas Mavericks: 1

Miami Heat: 1

During an interview with Speedy Morman on 360 with Speedy, James opened up about his NBA retirement.

“I know I’m on the other side of the hump for sure,” James said. “I’m not about to play another 23 years. That’s for damn sure. And I’m not about to play another 10. So I’m definitely gearing up to where the end is. I’m not there yet, but I’m super blessed to be able to sit here, year 23, another signature shoe, I picked up golf.

“Listen guys, every time I pick up something new does not mean retirement. … But retirement is coming. It is coming. It’s just not here just yet.”

A four-time MVP and four-time Finals MVP, James is arguably the best player in NBA history. If the Akron native plays in 2026-27, one NBA executive expects the Cavaliers, Mavericks and Warriors to pursue him.

“Cleveland, Dallas and Golden State, those are the three teams I’m looking at,” an NBA executive told DallasHoopsJournal. “All three would have loved to trade for him (LeBron James) this offseason, but he never requested a trade and he makes way too much money. Once he’s on the open market, those three will court him. I have no doubt in my mind.”

It will be fascinating to see if James retires after next season or chooses to play in 2026-27. The basketball legend averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists, 1.0 steals and 0.6 blocks for the Lakers last season in 70 games. He finished sixth in MVP voting and made the All-NBA Second Team.

James joined the Lakers in 2018. He led the franchise to the 2020 championship against the Heat at the Walt Disney World bubble.