LeBron James on Monday paid homage to Los Angeles Lakers coach Frank Vogel but claimed he was unaware of his termination.

The Lakers are likely to fire Vogel, according to ESPN, after the NBA giants’ dismal failure to make the playoffs.

However, when Lakers players spoke to the media for end-of-season interviews on Monday, the franchise had yet to confirm Vogel’s dismissal.

James said that he had no idea if Vogel, who guided the Lakers to an NBA championship in 2020, had been sacked.

“I have not been told,” James said. “I’ve seen the reports just like everybody else, so we’ll see what happens.”

Asked for his view of Vogel during his tenure, James said he had “nothing but respect” for the 48-year-old.

“I respect Frank as a coach, as a man,” James said.

“The partnership that we’ve had over the past few years has been nothing but just candid, great conversations.

“He’s a guy who gives everything to the game. Prepared us every single night with his coaching staff.

“At the end of the day, I don’t know what’s going to happen, but I’ve got nothing but respect for him.”

With a record of 33 wins and 49 losses, the Lakers ended 11th in the Western Conference, missing out on the playoffs.

It’s only the fourth time in James’ career that he has missed the playoffs, and it’s the second time since joining the Lakers in 2018.

After acquiring nine-time NBA All-Star Russell Westbrook in a blockbuster trade before the season, the Thunder was projected as a title candidate.

However, due to injury, the Lakers’ big three of James, Westbrook, and Anthony Davis were only able to play in 21 games during the 82-game season.

In response to concerns about his future, James, who is available to negotiate a contract extension later this year, remained coy.

Asked if he expected to finish his career with the Lakers, James replied: “Well the conversation hasn’t been talked about because, under the collective bargaining agreement, it can’t be discussed yet.”