Real reason LeBron James left LA Lakers revealed as two franchises lead race for NBA legend

LeBron James stunned the basketball world earlier this week after it emerged that he would leave the LA Lakers as a free agent and continue his NBA career elsewhere.

The 41-year-old, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in basketball history, is expected to attract no shortage of offers as he weighs up the next chapter of his illustrious career.

James is the NBA's all-time leading scorer and also holds the league records for most minutes played and most All-Star appearances. He has averaged an outstanding 26.8 points per game across his career and has won four NBA MVP awards – a tally surpassed only by Michael Jordan, Bill Russell and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

Speculation has been mounting over why James decided to leave Los Angeles, with reports now revealing the key factor behind his departure.

Why did LeBron James leave the LA Lakers?

According to reports, James' primary motivation is his desire to compete for another NBA championship before retiring.

With only a limited number of seasons remaining, the veteran is focused on maximising his chances of winning a fifth NBA title. The Lakers, meanwhile, are believed to be prioritising their long-term future, creating a difference in direction between player and franchise.

As a result, James is reportedly looking to join a team capable of contending for a championship immediately.

"LeBron knows the Lakers are building for the future, and he also wants to compete for championships," his agent, Rich Paul, told The Athletic.

"We do want to evaluate what's best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count," he added.

That view was echoed by ESPN senior NBA insider Shams Charania, who said James' next move will be driven by basketball ambitions rather than financial considerations.

"I'm told this is a happiness-led decision for LeBron James. He feels he needs to find his happiness elsewhere, and wherever he lands in free agency, it will not be driven by money," Charania said.

Which team will sign LeBron James next?

James is expected to be one of the most coveted free agents of the offseason, with several franchises already linked to the NBA superstar.

Early reports suggest the Golden State Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers are the two teams leading the race for his signature, although the Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs and Miami Heat have also been credited with interest.

ESPN reports that Golden State are preparing an aggressive pursuit of the 41-year-old while also exploring a move for Anthony Davis, who is currently with the Washington Wizards. Draymond Green has reportedly declined his $27.6 million player option and is willing to negotiate a reduced salary to help create the financial flexibility required to sign either James or Davis.

A move to Golden State would reunite James with close friend Green and, for the first time in his career, see him play alongside Stephen Curry. The pair were iconic rivals during four consecutive NBA Finals between 2015 and 2018, with Curry and the Warriors winning three of those championship series.

James also shares a strong relationship with Davis after the duo helped lead the Lakers to the 2020 NBA championship, making a reunion another intriguing possibility should the Warriors succeed in pursuing both stars.