By Humberto Viera
May 6, 2024, 2:39 PM EDT
LeBron James has not yet decided his future in the NBA. Following the elimination of the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2024 Playoffs, the basketball star has two options: exercise his player option for the 2024-25 season for $51.4 million or explore free agency.
According to various reports from media such as ESPN, James plans to opt for free agency. At 39 years old, the future Hall of Fame member is looking to sign a final two or three-year contract with the Los Angeles franchise.
The possibility of playing alongside his oldest son, Bronny, who currently plays at the University of Southern California, seems distant. Bronny has not yet stood out enough to be considered an NBA prospect.
The final decision on James’ future will be made in the coming weeks or months. Rich Paul, James’ agent, has indicated that the player has the physical and mental capacity to continue competing at the highest level for two or three more years. However, frustration over the past few seasons and a desire to spend more time with his family could lead him to retire early.
This was confirmed by Paul on the ‘All The Smoke’ podcast, although he is capable of playing for much longer.
“I think that in terms of body, he can play for five years. Mentally he can play forever because of how he understands the game. But as far as the frustration and the time he’s lost with his family, because I think they’ve been incredible, being an incredible support system and at some point it has to be about them. I think that from that perspective he has two or three more years left,” Paul said.
The Lakers are at a crossroads. If James decides to leave, the team will face a major rebuild. However, if he decides to stay, the Los Angeles franchise could have one last chance to compete for the championship with James at the helm.
LeBron James’ future in the NBA remains uncertain. What is certain is that the ‘King’ has two or three more years left to continue delighting the world with his talent.
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