Los Angeles Lakers talisman LeBron James was overheard suggesting his wife Savannah is keen for him to wind down his NBA career “in the next year or so.” Following a period of contemplation, the four-time NBA MVP has committed his future to the Los Angeles Lakers by picking up his hefty $52.6 million player option despite the franchise being in flux. The veteran continues to set the court alight, securing his place on the All-NBA team for an unprecedented 21st year running.
James last year clocked formidable averages of 24.4 points, 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds per game. Despite the high-octane addition of Luka Doncic via a blockbuster trade, the Lakers’ championship aspirations were dashed by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs. The 40-year-old icon deliberated extensively before making the call to grace the hardwood for a record-breaking 23rd season, leaving even his agent and confidant Rich Paul guessing. Ultimately, James has decided to lace up and reunite with Doncic on the court.
Nevertheless, the rumour mill has teased James’ next move after the 2025-26 NBA season. During an evening in Manhattan among friends including Miami Heat stalwart Kevin Love and his other half Kate, a snippet of dinner table conversation, later shared to Instagram by one of the guests, captured James’ candid words: “[Savannah] wants me to f***ing retire in the next year or so.”
James is on the cusp of eclipsing Robert Parish’s record for the most career regular-season games. The iconic hoopster has enshrined himself in basketball history as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and boasts an impressive collection of accolades including four NBA championships, four Finals MVP titles, four league MVPs, and a staggering 21 All-NBA and All-Star selections.
Adapting his game to meet the changes in his physique, James remains a dominant force. While he may no longer exhibit the otherworldly athleticism that once mesmerised fans, his astute basketball intellect and refined three-pointer have allowed him to excel in a new chapter of NBA history.
Matching Vince Carter’s record, James is also currently at the zenith of his career with 22 NBA seasons under his belt. He has committed to the Lakers, opting into a lucrative $52.6 million player option, focusing on clinching another championship title.
“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Paul explained to ESPN. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we’ve had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.
“We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive and want what’s best for him.”