NBA commissioner urged James to announce decision, but agent says no rush

Rich Paul, the agent for LeBron James, stated on Monday that there is no urgency for the NBA star to announce his next team for the 2026-27 season. Speaking on the latest episode of Game Over with Max Kellerman, Paul confirmed that interested franchises, including the Golden State Warriors, Cleveland Cavaliers, Philadelphia 76ers, and Miami Heat, do not need to take further action to influence James at this stage.

Paul clarified that several teams have contacted him to ask if they should be more involved while James weighs his options. He told them there was no need to go above and beyond, noting that all necessary messages have been sent. The agent dismissed speculation that the delay is a publicity stunt or a spectacle akin to The Decision in 2010, describing the choice as a business decision that James will make when ready.

The comments follow remarks from NBA commissioner Adam Silver, who expressed a desire for James to announce his decision to finish the current schedule. Paul said he spoke privately with Silver after those comments, reiterating that it is still James’ choice and that he cannot be rushed. Paul noted that he does not know when the choice will be made, stating it could be 48 seconds or 48 minutes away, but provided no specific timeframe.

James informed the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, three weeks prior to the report, that he would not return for the 2026-27 season and would enter free agency. This will be James’ 24th NBA season. The three Eastern Conference franchises are believed to be top considerations, with James having won two of his four championships and made four of his 10 career NBA Finals appearances with Miami from 2010 to 2014.

Paul pushed back against reports suggesting the announcement was imminent, stating he does not know when the choice will be made. He insisted that interested teams should continue to fill roster spots that are not filled, rather than waiting for James’ decision. When asked if James was leaning in any direction, Paul replied that there is nothing he can say regarding any pecking order.