The end of the Los Angeles Lakers season after their loss to the Denver Nuggets got its fair share of coverage. But what everyone wanted to know was what was next for LeBron James. That was the more important and popular question. The fact that the team was conducting their exit interviews last night instead of in the coming days only added more credibility to the retirement rumors. But the “King” said yesterday that he hadn’t decided anything, yet. All he wanted to do was spend some quality time with his family and then focus on Team USA and the Paris Olympics.
But that did not stop the churning of the rumor mill. Since that was in full swing, James decided to join the fray. He tweeted an update on his X account regarding his future, which more or less is a teaser. “I’ve seen, heard a lot of reports about my future. I said it last night and I’ll say it again. I do not know yet as I’m only thinking about spending time with my family & friends! When I know after speaking with the fam, my counsel as”
He completed the sentence in another tweet immediately following the first. “Well, as my representation about it, then you guys will know. Until then. Love.” The man seemed to be tired of all the speculations and theories about his future when he made it quite clear last night that he had no specific decision right now. If his words weren’t enough to convey his thoughts, Bron even used a shushing emoji. Could he be any more clear?
Last night, when asked if this was his final season with the Purple & Gold, he gave a direct answer – “I am not going to answer that.” Looking at the situation realistically, LeBron James has the option to hit free agency for the coming season. He could use it to return to Los Angeles and hope to pick up where they left off last night. Or he could very well join the team that drafts Bronny James in the NBA draft.
According to Athletic’s Shams Charania, the Lakers are open to drafting Bronny. But with or without James’ son, one thing the franchise has made clear is that they “badly” want the ‘Akron Hammer’ back. So much so that they are open to signing a three-year, $164 million max extension.
The four-time champion’s comfortable silence could also be because he has enough time to make a decision about his future. James has until June 29 to leave the Lakers franchise. The NBA draft, on the other hand, is to be held on 26 and 27 of the same month. So, technically, the 20x All-Star still has an extra day to decide his destination, if he does decide to continue playing.
Then again, the man is in his 21st season. He will turn 40 in December. Asking him to carry the Lakers like he’s done this season would be just brutal. Unless the team can step up and own their responsibilities, the chances of them repeating this year are just as highly likely.
At the moment, we aren’t getting any official updates from LeBron James until it’s the right time. Until then, let’s focus on the playoffs and the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.
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