LeBron James Reflects on Lakers Future: “I Don’t Know What’s Next” After Early Playoff Exit
As the Los Angeles Lakers’ season came to a disappointing close with a first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves, all eyes turned toward LeBron James and the looming question of his future.
In the wake of Wednesday night’s 103-96 loss in Game 5, James was honest—but noncommittal—about what comes next.
“I don’t have an answer to that,” James said when asked if he’d return next season. “It’s something I’ll sit down with my family, my wife and my support group and kind of just talk through it and see what happens.”
The 39-year-old superstar, who just wrapped up his 22nd NBA season, averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds across 70 games—while also shooting a career-best 78.2% from the free-throw line. In Game 3 of the series, he dropped 38 points, setting the record for most points in a playoff game by a player aged 40 or older.
Contract Questions and Legacy Moments
James has a player option worth $52.6 million for the 2025–26 season. While the contract decision is his to make, he said the conversation is more about how long he wants to play rather than can.
“I think the only thing is, it’s up to me… It has nothing to do with anybody else,” he emphasized.
Earlier this season, on his 40th birthday, James mentioned that while he believes he could play for “another five to seven years,” retirement would come down to his personal desires—not ability.
“It won’t be because I can’t play at a high level,” he said. “It’ll be because I decide it’s time.”
The Luka Trade, JJ Redick, and a Changing Roster
This season was marked by change. The Lakers made a blockbuster trade midseason, acquiring Luka Dončić in a move that sent Anthony Davis out of Los Angeles. LeBron adapted quickly, emerging as one of the team’s defensive leaders and a mentor to the retooled roster.
“With that uniform on every night, I gave everything I had. And that’s all that matters,” James said proudly.
He also praised rookie head coach JJ Redick for how he handled the intense spotlight of leading the Lakers.
“It’s already hard being a rookie coach in the NBA. It’s a hell of a lot harder being a rookie head coach coaching the Lakers,” he said. “And I thought JJ handled it extremely well.”
A Season to Remember: Playing with Bronny
While his stats and accolades continue to defy age, James said the highlight of his season—and perhaps his entire career—was sharing the court with his son, Bronny James.
From becoming the first father-son duo to play in an NBA game to scoring together on Oct. 30 in Cleveland, the moment meant more than words could express.
“That’s easy,” James said when asked about his greatest achievement. “To be able to play the game that I love and to be along with my son this whole year has been one of the most gratifying, satisfying journeys I’ve ever been on.”
What’s Next?
As of now, LeBron James remains undecided about his future. Whether he picks up his option, explores free agency, or steps away from the game, one thing is clear: he’s still playing at an elite level and remains the heart of the Lakers’ identity.
Until a decision is made, fans—and the NBA world—will be waiting.
“I still love the game. I still got a lot to give,” James said. “While I’m here today, I’m going to try to give what I got.”
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