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By Matthew Couden
Contributing Writer
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LeBron James made headlines on Tuesday with the reveal of his departure from the Los Angeles Lakers after eight years playing for the team, immediately raising speculation on his next team.
The news brought a farewell message from the Lakers, thanking James for what he did while a member of the team. James also sent a message thanking the Lakers organization for being able to continue the "greatness and legacies" that came there before him.
That includes Earvin "Magic" Johnson, who is considered among the greatest Lakers of all time, having won five championships with the team during his career. The Basketball Hall of Famer was formerly president of the team, and helped bring James there years ago.
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"I want to thank LeBron James and his super agent Rich Paul for taking a meeting with me back in 2018 when I was President of the Lakers and deciding to sign with us. He created a whole new era for the Lakers, including leading us to an NBA Championship in 2020 and all the milestones he surpassed in a Lakers jersey. I’ll always love and be grateful for him and wish him all the best in the next phase of his life, on and off the court!" Magic wrote in his X message.
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During James' time with the Lakers, he helped deliver a championship alongside Anthony Davis during the 2020 "bubble" season. In addition, James surpassed several NBA records, previously held by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, including the all-time points scored record.
His next move is said to involve three potential teams: the Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, and Miami Heat. The Cavaliers would be a return to the place where it all started back in 2003, and presumably be a fitting finale to his legendary career.
However, Miami and Golden State could also present strong championship contender teams. The Heat recently landed Giannis Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster trade to pair with Bam Adebayo. Adding James would create another "Big Three" situation in the league, similar to his previous time in South Beach.
And then there's the Warriors, a team featuring fellow superstar Stephen Curry, multi-time All-Star Jimmy Butler, recently-signed Kristaps Porzingis, and legendary coach Steve Kerr. James joining Golden State would create a superteam, but of elder stars, with some speculating it still might not be enough to contend in a very tough Western Conference.
After his eight years with the Lakers, the world now waits to see what's next for one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
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