LeBron James is returning for a record 24th NBA season—but he won't be wearing purple and gold. James, who turns 42 in December, will play in 2026-27 but not for the Los Angeles Lakers, reports ESPN. The league's all-time scoring leader is an unrestricted free agent after this season, which ended with a Lakers semifinal playoff loss, per USA Today. Negotiations can begin on Tuesday evening, and ESPN reports that the Golden State Warriors are expected to seriously pursue James.