A Los Angeles Lakers organization source described internal regret over how the franchise handled the final phase of its partnership with LeBron James as the team shifted toward Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. The comments come after James left the Lakers after eight seasons and enter free agency for the 2026–27 season.
ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne reported that one Lakers staffer believed the organization fell short in recognizing James’ willingness to cede control of the roster direction. The source framed it as a rare misstep for a franchise long known for star management during its transition period.
“Honestly, I don’t know if we did enough to acknowledge the sacrifices he made in being willing to give the keys over,” the staffer said, adding James “tried to do what was best for the team to win,” according to Shelburne.
James’ departure was confirmed after Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul informed the Lakers that the 41-year-old intended to continue his career elsewhere in 2026–27. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported the communication came before free agency, allowing the front office to proceed with roster planning.
On the court, James still produced at a high level in 2025–26, averaging 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds while shooting 51.5% in 60 games for the Los Angeles Lakers. The team finished 53–29, won the Pacific Division, and reached the Western Conference semifinals.
That postseason ended with a 4–0 loss to the eventual conference finalist Oklahoma City Thunder. The Lakers’ offense was led by Doncic, who posted 33.5 points, 8.3 assists and 7.7 rebounds in his first full season in Los Angeles after joining as the franchise’s new centerpiece.
The organizational shift had already been signaled internally. Doncic averaged 33.5 points per game and finished fourth in MVP voting, while Reaves signed a four-year, $185 million extension after posting 23.3 points and 5.5 assists per game, solidifying the second core piece.
