LeBron James will continue his NBA career for a record-extending 24th season, but not with the Los Angeles Lakers. James has informed the franchise that it can move forward without him, according to his agent and the Lakers.
The announcement closes an eight-year run in Los Angeles, the longest stint of James' 23-year NBA career. During that time, he led the Lakers to the 2020 NBA championship, became the league's all-time leading scorer, and added to one of the most decorated careers in basketball history.
James, 41, is expected to become the first player in NBA history to play a 24th season. He turns 42 in December.
Green addressed his decision on an episode of his podcast released Tuesday.
"Personally, I'm always willing to work with the team on whatever is best, especially at this point in my career," Green said. "So my decision to opt out was for a few reasons. As you all know, I've always taken the approach of working with the organization."
Green, James, and Anthony Davis are all represented by Paul.
James remained one of the NBA's most productive players last season despite missing time with sciatica. He averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds in the regular season and earned another All-Star selection.
James spent seven seasons with the Cleveland Cavaliers before joining the Miami Heat, where he won his first two NBA championships. He returned to Cleveland in 2014 and led the Cavaliers to their first NBA title in 2016, then signed with the Lakers in 2018.
James' resume includes four NBA championships, four league MVP awards, four Finals MVP honors, 22 All-Star selections, and a spot on the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team.
Last season, he became the first player in league history to share the court with his son, Bronny James, after the Lakers drafted the younger James.