How LeBron James' NBA Free Agency Decision Could Have Been Impacted By $12.5B 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.

As for James, he left Los Angeles to sign a two-year contract with the Philadelphia 76ers on July 24.

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.

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.

Although an earlier ownership change may have impacted his choice to potentially stay, his on-court fit with the Lakers was still uncertain prior to the sale.

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.