LeBron James Joining the Knicks Ended After 2026 Championship Win, Reveals Rich Paul

The New York Knicks didn’t ignore LeBron James after he became an unrestricted free agent.

LeBron James Joining the Knicks Ended After 2026 Championship Win, Reveals Rich Paul

Rich Paul speaks about LeBron James (Image credits - Firstsportz)

The 2026-27 campaign will represent LeBron James’ 24th season in the NBA. James may be well past his prime and may not be the player he once was, but his 23rd season showed everyone that he can still play at a very high level.

After leading the Los Angeles Lakers to the Western Conference Semifinals this year, James impressed the NBA community with his performances. However, his contract with the Lakers came to an end in the offseason.

James’ longtime friend and agent, Rich Paul, revealed that the four-time champion would sign for the New York Knicks if they hadn’t won the championship this year.

I think it’s difficult… If the Knicks hadn’t won, there would be no board, he’d be going to the Knicks…. Jalen Brunson would literally have to pick up the phone and just say, ‘Hey man, there’s no issue with me.’ You want to respect what those guys have built. They (Knicks) have checked in.

Rich Paul on Game Over

It has been eight years since LeBron James was last an unrestricted free agent. While age may not be on his side, he has defied father time like nobody else. James averaged 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists in 60 appearances last season.

A few days ago, Rich Paul confirmed that there was an 80% chance that James would continue for the Lakers. But as time passed by, it became more and more likely that he would look to test free agency.

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New York Knicks is not an option for LeBron James anymore

The New York Knicks are coming off a historic championship run. With Jalen Brunson leading the way, the Knicks lifted their first championship in 53 years. However, Paul did disclose that the Knicks did check in on the four-time champion.

It has been reported that multiple teams are interested in signing James. But as Paul said, it is not about the money anymore as James wants to prioritize his happiness.

While joining the Knicks would be a historic move for James, it would not feel the same anymore as they are coming off a championship run. After what he has achieved in the last three years, the Knicks will always be Brunson’s team.

It is also very likely that whichever team James decides to join this year will be the final team of his legendary career. The rumors about his future are not going to end anytime soon. But for now, it can be assured that the Knicks will not be James’ final destination.

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This may not be LeBron James’ final year in the league

It was not so long ago that James was undecided on his future. Considering his age, many assumed that the upcoming campaign would be his final season in the NBA.

Crypto.com Arena will no longer be LeBron James' home
LeBron James (Image via Bron Muse/X)

However, it looks like James may have more than one year left in him. Rich Paul set the record straight about his agent’s future in the league.

Who says this is going to be his last year? He’s had that (documentary crew) for the last 4 years. No one said this is going to be his last year. Also, once he got the green light from Savannah and Zhuri, you can do whatever you want to do….. I’ve heard from, the other day I said 10-12 teams, I counted today. Outside of one organization, maybe two. I’ve heard from every organization in the league.

Rich Paul said on Game Over

There are still several landing spots for James, including a move to the Golden State Warriors who are interested in trading for his former teammate Anthony Davis as well. And it goes without saying, James will want join a team that wants to contend for a championship.

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