LeBron James' Decision Impacted by Los Angeles Lakers' Sale The Los Angeles
Lakers' recent $12.5 billion sale could have affected LeBron James' choice in free agency. ESPN's Dave McMenamin asked a "source close to James" whether the ownership change might have influenced the four-time MVP's desire to stay with Los Angeles if it happened earlier. "Maybe," the source told McMenamin. "But that's tough to answer. Communication could have been better [with Iger and Kushner, compared to Walter]. Just a different relationship. But the basketball piece was the most important, so maybe not from that standpoint." An ownership group led by Josh Kushner and Bob Iger purchased the Lakers from majority stakeholder Mark Walter on Wednesday. The Los Angeles Lakers' recent $12.5 billion sale occurred after the team's 110-115 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on 2026-05-12. Los Angeles has focused on building around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves moving forward, acquiring players including center Walker Kessler, guard Quentin Grimes and forward Sandro Mamukelashvili this offseason. Meanwhile, James is joining a 76ers squad that is looking to contend in the Eastern Conference during their 2026-27 campaign. Philadelphia already added five-time All-Star Jaylen Brown alongside Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe this summer. The 76ers also made their own depth additions such as guard Anfernee Simons and forward Dean Wade. James spent the past eight seasons in Los Angeles, earning seven All-NBA selections and helping the team capture a championship during its 2019-20 campaign. While there were several teams reportedly vying for his services, it's worth noting that he informed the Lakers he planned to sign elsewhere on June 30.
What Happened? The Los Angeles
Lakers' recent $12.5 billion sale could have affected LeBron James' choice in free agency. ESPN's Dave McMenamin asked a "source close to James" whether the ownership change might have influenced the four-time MVP's desire to stay with Los Angeles if it happened earlier.
Why it Matters for Los Angeles Lakers The Los Angeles
Lakers' recent $12.5 billion sale could have affected LeBron James' choice in free agency. The four-time MVP left Los Angeles to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers.
What Comes Next? The Los Angeles
Lakers' recent $12.5 billion sale occurred after the team's 110-115 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on 2026-05-12. Los Angeles has focused on building around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves moving forward, acquiring players including center Walker Kessler, guard Quentin Grimes and forward Sandro Mamukelashvili this offseason. Meanwhile, James is joining a 76ers squad that is looking to contend in the Eastern Conference during their 2026-27 campaign. Philadelphia already added five-time All-Star Jaylen Brown alongside Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe this summer. The 76ers also made their own depth additions such as guard Anfernee Simons and forward Dean Wade.
