Lakers legend sends blessings to LeBron! Kareem jokingly says he could become mayor of Cleveland, while Magic expresses eternal gratitude

Starting July 1st Beijing time, LeBron James will embark on a historic 24th personal NBA campaign, yet his destination will not be with the Los Angeles Lakers. According to ESPN's Shams, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul revealed that James has notified the Lakers of his decision to play for a different franchise in the upcoming season.

Lakers owner Jeanie Buss released an official statement: "LeBron James is one of the greatest athletes of all time. We will forever be grateful for his eight years with the Lakers—leading the team to a championship in 2020 under unprecedented difficult circumstances, and breaking countless records while wearing the purple and gold. We wish him nothing but the best on and off the court. He will always be a cherished member of the Lakers family."

Luka Dončić responded to LeBron's departure on his Instagram story, writing: "It was an honor to play alongside you and learn from you."

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar wrote on social media: "LeBron is a winner both on and off the court. Lakers fans should remember and appreciate his eight years of dedication. If LeBron returns to his hometown of Cleveland, it won't matter whether the Cavaliers win a championship or not—fans there will finally have the chance to properly bid farewell to this historic legend. Who knows, maybe one day he could even become the mayor of Cleveland!"

Magic Johnson wrote on social media: "I want to thank LeBron James and his top-notch agent Rich Paul. When I was Lakers president in 2018, they took the time to meet with me and ultimately chose to join the Lakers. He ushered in a new era for the franchise: leading the team to a championship in 2020 and shattering countless historical records in purple and gold. I will always be grateful for him and love him. I wish him nothing but success on and off the court in the next chapter of his life!"

Last season, LeBron James was selected as an All-Star, averaging 20.9 points on 51.5% shooting, along with 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds. He elevated his play in the playoffs, raising his average minutes from 33.2 in the regular season to 38.4, while posting 23.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 6.7 rebounds per game. With Luka Dončić sidelined due to a hamstring injury, LeBron led the Lakers to a first-round victory over the Houston Rockets.