LeBron James Hints at Playing Only One or Two More Years in the NBA [Video]

LeBron James, at 39 years old, has started this season playing as if he were 29. He is averaging 24 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds while shooting nearly 53% from the field through eleven games this season. Although James has enjoyed tremendous success throughout his illustrious 19-year career, it does not necessarily mean he wants to play until he is 45, even if he physically could. With one son, LeBron James Jr., playing alongside him, his prophecy seems close to being fulfilled.

He was asked postgame how much longer he would play and shared an interesting response.

“I’m not gonna play that much longer, to be completely honest,” James told the media. “One year, two years… I’m not gonna play ‘till the wheels fall off. I’m not gonna be that guy. I’m not gonna be that guy that’s disrespecting the game because I just want to be out on the floor. No, that won’t be me.”

This morning on ESPN’s First Take marked the first genuine discussion surrounding a potential timeline for James stepping away from the game he loves. NBA Insider Shams Charania joined Stephen A. Smith on First Take to provide insights on James’ start to the season and the current state of the Los Angeles Lakers as they pursue another championship.

“Stephen A., this man is about to be 40 years old next month,” Charania said. “His best three-point percentage of his career, the best field goal percentage of his career. He’s averaging the second-most assists of his career, and that’s with the lowest usage rating of his career because he has to be around the orbit of Anthony Davis. That’s why when they brought in JJ Redick, everyone framed it as a LeBron James hire, and of course, that podcast didn’t hurt. But everything centers around Anthony Davis and how he fits into JJ Redick’s offense—he is at the center of everything.”

Davis has stepped up and capitalized on his opportunities this season within this system, averaging 30 points, ten rebounds, and three assists while shooting 56% from the field. So far, he has had a healthy season, with the Lakers sitting at 7-4, holding sixth place in the Western Conference. Shams provided further context into James’ quote from the previous night, as it caught his attention.

“My sense is next season could potentially be his last in the NBA. Now, could he play another season after that? In 2026 or 2027, Bryce James, his youngest son, Class of 2025—maybe Bryce James keeps him around for another year or two. But I do think a star game in LA could create good momentum for that.”

James signed a two-year max extension during the offseason, and it will be interesting to see how the Lakers’ success impacts his decisions moving forward.