The Los Angeles Lakers earned a much-needed win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday, 112-108.
The Lakers closed out their mini three-game road trip with a win, and while their best player, five-time All-NBA guard Luka Doncic, did his thing on Sunday after a two-game absence with a 31-point triple-double, it was LeBron James who stole the show.
The 21-time All-NBA forward was stellar and scored the team’s final 10 points to seal the deal for Los Angeles. LA now moves to 17-6 on the season and will next take on the San Antonio Spurs in the quarterfinals of the NBA Cup on Wednesday.
The 40-year-old turned back to the clock on Sunday to guide the Lakers to a win, but after the game, he raised some eyebrows with his comments.
More news: Blake Griffin Breaks Silence on Chris Paul, Clippers Breakup Drama
James may have hinted at a potential retirement after this season, following his vintage performance.
“I’ve had so many of those moments, and it never gets old,” James said of his late fourth-quarter heroics, per ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. “That’s one thing you won’t be able to get back when you’re done playing is that arena, that excitement going out and either with the excitement or boos or cheers, whatever the case may be, you’ll never really be able to get that back once you’re done playing. I understand I’m on the other side of the fence than the previous one, so just to do it in a win is more important, to be able to come up clutch in a win that’s even more exciting.”
Doncic touched on James’ fourth-quarter heroics as well and appreciated it while experiencing it on the court.
“That was amazing,” Doncic said. “That was vintage LeBron… We’re happy he was there to save us. He had an amazing game and an amazing fourth quarter… He decided the game.”
More news: Massive Knicks Trade Idea Sees New York Land Giannis Antetokounmpo
James was incredible, recording 29 points on an efficient 12-of-17 shooting from the field. The four-time league MVP also added seven rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block in 34 minutes.
If James’ words hold any weight, that could be the last time he plays in front of the Philly fanbase. It’s clear that James is closer to the end than the beginning of his career as he embarks on his unprecedented 23rd season in the NBA.
Many are skeptical about whether this will be James’ final season. The veteran superstar is currently on an expiring $52.6 million contract. He has yet to make any comments about that, and it’s unclear if he ever will at some point this season. In the meantime, he will do his best to help guide the Lakers to yet another title.
For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.