At 40 years old, LeBron James is still defying the laws of aging in the NBA. But after the Los Angeles Lakers ’ early exit from the 2025 playoffs and a knee injury in Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the future of the league’s most enduring superstar is suddenly murky. With retirement rumors swirling and a massive player option looming, the question now isn’t just how long LeBron can keep going—it’s whether he even wants to anymore.
What’s next for LeBron James? Retirement, reunion, or one last dance?
LeBron James has been writing his own rules for over two decades, but as the 2025 offseason begins, even he doesn’t know how the next chapter unfolds.
“I don't know. I don't have an answer to that,” James told reporters after the Lakers’ season-ending loss to the Timberwolves. “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 four-time MVP suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee during Game 5, a brutal finish to a postseason that was already disappointing. The Lakers, widely expected to contend after acquiring Luka Doncic from the Mavericks in February, bowed out in five games in the opening round.
Still, even in defeat, LeBron showed his brilliance, averaging 25.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.8 blocks during the series. He also played 70 games during the regular season, putting up 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game—numbers that would be impressive for any player, let alone the league’s oldest.
James now holds a $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season. If he opts in, he returns to the Lakers. If not, he becomes a free agent. According to Bleacher Report, the most likely path forward is a fresh two-year, $105 million deal with a player option on the second season.
“Look for James to give himself a bit of wiggle room,” Buckley wrote, “by declining his option and re-signing with the Lakers.”
Such flexibility would allow LeBron to stay open to several scenarios, including the possibility of playing alongside both of his sons. With Bronny James already in the league and Bryce James potentially eligible for the 2026 NBA Draft, LeBron’s dream of sharing the court with both may be closer than ever.
Yet, there’s also the very real possibility that the 2025–26 season could be his last. If he commits to one final run, the Lakers could send him off with a farewell tour fitting for a legend, including an appearance in the 2026 All-Star Game in Los Angeles.
Also Read: LeBron James' rival Paul Pierce says the king’s reign is over urges Los Angeles Lakers to reset around Luka Doncic for a championship push
No matter what decision LeBron makes, he’s earned the right to take his time. His future is entirely in his hands, and the Lakers will likely support whatever path he chooses. Whether it’s one more season, a new deal, or a quiet retirement, the entire NBA world will be watching—and waiting—for the King’s next move.
What’s next for LeBron James? Retirement, reunion, or one last dance?
LeBron James has been writing his own rules for over two decades, but as the 2025 offseason begins, even he doesn’t know how the next chapter unfolds.
“I don't know. I don't have an answer to that,” James told reporters after the Lakers’ season-ending loss to the Timberwolves. “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 four-time MVP suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee during Game 5, a brutal finish to a postseason that was already disappointing. The Lakers, widely expected to contend after acquiring Luka Doncic from the Mavericks in February, bowed out in five games in the opening round.
Still, even in defeat, LeBron showed his brilliance, averaging 25.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.8 blocks during the series. He also played 70 games during the regular season, putting up 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game—numbers that would be impressive for any player, let alone the league’s oldest.
James now holds a $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season. If he opts in, he returns to the Lakers. If not, he becomes a free agent. According to Bleacher Report, the most likely path forward is a fresh two-year, $105 million deal with a player option on the second season.
LeBron James Predicted To Sign New $105 Million Contract With Lakers https://t.co/fBFYldjFLg
— Sam Amico (@AmicoHoops) May 14, 2025
“Look for James to give himself a bit of wiggle room,” Buckley wrote, “by declining his option and re-signing with the Lakers.”
Such flexibility would allow LeBron to stay open to several scenarios, including the possibility of playing alongside both of his sons. With Bronny James already in the league and Bryce James potentially eligible for the 2026 NBA Draft, LeBron’s dream of sharing the court with both may be closer than ever.
Yet, there’s also the very real possibility that the 2025–26 season could be his last. If he commits to one final run, the Lakers could send him off with a farewell tour fitting for a legend, including an appearance in the 2026 All-Star Game in Los Angeles.
Also Read: LeBron James' rival Paul Pierce says the king’s reign is over urges Los Angeles Lakers to reset around Luka Doncic for a championship push
No matter what decision LeBron makes, he’s earned the right to take his time. His future is entirely in his hands, and the Lakers will likely support whatever path he chooses. Whether it’s one more season, a new deal, or a quiet retirement, the entire NBA world will be watching—and waiting—for the King’s next move.
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