Big Mistake": Kendrick Perkins, Gilbert Arenas & NBA World React to LeBron James' Lakers Exit

LeBron James’ exit from the Los Angeles Lakers has shifted the league’s focus from whether he would leave to where he would go next. On Tuesday, Shams Charania reported that after eight seasons in Los Angeles, including a 2020 NBA championship, James is departing and entering free agency to join a new team. Before free agency opened, Lakers president Rob Pelinka and Rich Paul met briefly with James, and the article says he informed the organization early out of respect, giving the front office time for offseason planning. While the Lakers indicated they wanted to retain him, former teammates and NBA voices responded publicly. Kendrick Perkins called the decision “a big mistake,” emphasizing leadership as distinct from on-court production, and contrasted it with others’ leadership roles. The piece cites Houston as part of a 2026 playoff series example and notes Gilbert Arenas reacted on Instagram as well.