Kareem Abdul-Jabbar names what ‘won’t matter’ if LeBron James joins Cavaliers after Lakers exit

1 Jul 2026 • 9:05 AM MYT
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Image from: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar names what ‘won’t matter’ if LeBron James joins Cavaliers after Lakers exit
Photo by Harry How/Getty Images

It’s official, LeBron James’ tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers has come to an end after eight years.

After weeks of rumors, LeBron James has confirmed that he will no longer play for the Los Angeles Lakers next season.

The 41-year-old’s departure has gone viral, and many legends, including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, have reacted to the news.

Image from: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar names what ‘won’t matter’ if LeBron James joins Cavaliers after Lakers exit
Photo by Harry How/Getty Images

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar predicts what will happen if LeBron James joins Cleveland Cavaliers

For decades, Abdul-Jabbar held the record for scoring the most points in NBA history, until James broke it while being a member of the Lakers.

Many may believe that has soured their relationship, but the way Abdul-Jabbar reacted to James’ exit, it paints a different picture.

“LeBron was a winner on and off the court, and Laker fans should appreciate his performance for the last 8 years,” Abdul-Jabbar said of James’ Lakers tenure.

So what’s next for the King? Another reunion with the Cleveland Cavaliers? Abdul-Jabbar certainly feels that way.

“If LeBron goes home to Cleveland, it won’t matter if they win the world championship or not because it’s hometown fans will get their opportunity to say their goodbyes to one of the greatest ever,” he added.

At 41, James has done more than enough to carve an unforgettable NBA legacy, and at this point, it’s no longer about winning another title.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar says LeBron James could become Mayor of Cleveland

With James in the twilight years of his NBA career, it’s only a matter of time before he officially retires from the NBA.

If James retires as a member of the Cavaliers, Abdul-Jabbar has predicted a unique post-NBA career for the 4x NBA champion.

“And who knows one day he may become Mayor,” Abdul-Jabbar concluded.

The idea of James becoming a mayor isn’t too surprising as he is still one of the most beloved athletes to ever play for a Cleveland team, albeit his 2010 hiccup after joining the Miami Heat.

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