The name LeBron James is synonymous with the NBA, and has been since he entered the league 21 years ago. Now 39 years old, speculation has been rife over how much longer “King James” will continue to play.
NBA insider Shams Charania appeared today on the Pat McAfee show to report that James is expected to play for “one or two more years”.
NBA Insider Reveals LeBron James’ Retirement Plan
“One or two more years is the expectation for LeBron James..
Clearly he still loves the game and he still wants to win another ring” ~ @ShamsCharania#PMSLive pic.twitter.com/rvwOwP1MPJ
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) April 2, 2024
LeBron James’ Retirement
Following the Lakers most recent 116-104 victory over the Brooklyn Nets, James was asked how much longer he aims to play in the NBA.
LeBron James on how long he expects to continue playing in the NBA: “Not very long. … I’m not gonna play another 21 years, that’s for damn sure. But not very long. I don’t know when that door will close as far as when I’ll retire. But I don’t have much time left.” pic.twitter.com/OtJzM6cheI
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) April 1, 2024
James’ solemn response is by no means a reflection of his current ability. Just minutes prior, James had wrapped up the finishing touches on a masterful 40-point performance.
The Lakers superstar shot 13-17 from the field, including an astounding 9-10 from three-point range. He also chipped in with 7 rebounds and 5 assists.
LeBron James in 2023-24
The NBA world continues to marvel at James’ longevity.
Now in his 21st season, James continues to find ways to adapt his game to his age. Although his current athletic abilities no longer match those of his youth, James’ speed and strength still make him a nightmare to defend in the open court.
Three-point shooting was an issue in 2022-23 for the future Hall of Famer, shooting only 32.1%. That was his worst season from beyond the arc since 2007-08.
It’s safe to say that the four-time NBA champion has regained his shooting touch in 2023-24. James is up to 41.6% shooting from deep, averaging 5.3 attempts per game. Having only missed 10 games this season, James is averaging 25.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game.
Los Angeles Lakers in 2023-24
The Lakers have endured a topsy-turvy season. Expectations were higher than ever following their capture of the NBA’s maiden In-Season Tournament back in December, yet Los Angeles fell out of the playoff spots thanks to a woeful couple of months in December and January. They have since steadied the ship, with a record of 18-8 since February.
Now 9th in the Western Conference with a record of 42-33, LA will be hoping to achieve an unlikely climb out of the play-in with only seven games to go in the regular season.
The last playoff spot is currently occupied by the sixth-seeded New Orleans Pelicans. New Orleans has a three-game lead over the Lakers. LA does however hold a 2-1 season series lead over New Orleans.
The two teams will meet at the Smoothie King Center on the last day of the regular season in what could be a pivotal finale for both teams.