Perhaps the biggest offseason question surrounding the Los Angeles Lakers is LeBron James’ future with the franchise. After a first-round exit in the NBA Playoffs, there is rumors swirling that The King could possibly retire or look for greener pastures elsewhere. He quickly addressed the rumblings on social media Tuesday, saying he’s yet to make a decision on what the next step will look like.
Hanging up the sneakers feels unlikely given just how productive he still is and James’ agent, Rich Paul, made it clear he sees the league’s all-time leading scorer playing another 2-5 years, as he revealed on The All The Smoke podcast with Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson:
“I think body wise, 5 (years). Mind-wise, understanding how to play the game mind-wise forever. Mind-wise as it pertains to frustration and or just like, man I had enough, just missing time with his family, they’ve been unbelievable. So his support system at some point it’s got to be about them, and I think from that perspective maybe 2-3 (years) from that perspective.”
It’s rather obvious that LeBron’s body is capable of playing a few more years at the minimum. He doesn’t invest $1 million per year into his body for nothing. But, as Paul pointed out, it eventually will be more about being there for his family. Bronny is on the verge of the NBA jump, although he’ll likely start in the G-League. Bryce James is a solid prep prospect as well and has a bright future ahead.
LeBron James isn’t slowing down
LeBron has a player option with the Lakers in 2024-25 worth $51 million before becoming a free agent next summer. But, Bron could hit the open market in the coming months if he declines that option by June 29th.
After losing in five games to the Denver Nuggets, The King refused to answer if it was his final game in the Purple and Gold:
“I’m not going to answer that,” he said.
Year 21 was still extremely productive for the 39-year-old, posting averages of 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, 7.3 rebounds, 1.3 steals, and 0.5 blocks. James also shot 54% from the field and 41% from three-point land. The superstar put up 30 points in Games 4 and 5 versus Denver, doing everything he could to help the Lakers stay in the series. But, the supporting cast didn’t do their part.
Anthony Davis, who Bron lured to Los Angeles, will be there to support his teammate, no matter what he does.
Via ESPN:
“I mean, he has been in this position numerous times in his career, where he had to make a decision ultimately for himself and his family,” Davis said of LeBron James, whom he will be teaming up with at the Olympics. “I’ll be right there supporting whatever he decides to do. … It’s still fresh. I mean, I’m pretty sure it’s not even on his mind right now. But I’m pretty sure he’ll come talk to me, tell me what’s going on before he becomes public with the situation, just to keep me in the loop.”
“Obviously, it’s been a great five seasons with him,” Davis continued. “If he does decide to come back, obviously this isn’t what we want to be left at, losing in the first round. If he does, obviously our goal is to come back and be a championship contender, stay healthy and give Laker Nation what they deserve.
“But he has a decision to make, and when that time comes, he’ll inform me and inform you guys.”
Every single NBA fan will be awaiting what LeBron’s decision on his future.
