LeBron James: 4 Scenarios for His Historic Season 23 in the NBA

LeBron James: The King in the Final Stage?

In the Lakers’ locker room, LeBron James’ presence was subtly manifested before the start of the preseason in Palm Desert, California. His gold uniform with the number 23 and a triangular cushion on his seat were the only signs of his imminent participation. That night, the t-shirt wouldn’t be necessary, but the pillow would. Of the 42 players on the Lakers and Phoenix Suns rosters, most were born in the 2000s and 1990s. James, on the other hand, was born in 1984, five months before Suns coach Jordan Ott. The 40-year-old star did not play the exhibition game due to a gluteal irritation, according to Lakers coach JJ Redick. However, the cushion fulfilled its function, accompanying him in the locker room and during the game. When James finally appeared, wearing a t-shirt with the phrase “Forever King” from his latest Nike advertising campaign, a reporter asked him if he was ready for his 23rd season, an unprecedented feat. Before James could answer, Austin Reaves, Lakers player, intervened:

“You have five more seasons left”.

Austin Reaves

James’ response was a smile, and the conversation continued, suggesting the possibility of reaching 30 years of career. “I already set a record,” James replied, remembering that he is the only player in NBA history with 23 seasons. In addition to his longevity, James leads the league in regular season points scored (42,184) and playoffs (8,289), and in All-Star appearances (21). He was also part of the first active father-son duo to share the court with Bronny James. James’ achievements are numerous, including four MVP awards, four championships, and four Finals MVPs. Now, in his eighth season with the Lakers, the question is whether time is running out or if he will seek to extend his legacy. This season, James is playing on an expiring contract, after exercising his option for $52.6 million for the 2025-26 season. On Lakers media day, the first question was about his possible retirement. “I don’t know,” responded James, who was recognized on the All-NBA second team in his 22nd season. “I’m excited to play the sport I love for another season. And no matter how the road goes this year, I’m very involved. Because, as you said, I don’t know when the end is, but I know it’s much sooner than later.” The Lakers, who will be without James for several weeks due to sciatica, are coming off a season in which they added Luka Doncic and secured third place in the Western Conference, but were eliminated by the Timberwolves. After James chose to stay in Los Angeles, his agent, Rich Paul, hinted that James could finish his career elsewhere. “LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Paul said. “He values the possibility of winning. We want to assess what’s best for LeBron at this stage of his life and career.” With James having control of his career for 22 years, the best and the realistic could come into conflict.

These are the possible options for James and the Lakers:

Retire as a Laker after the 2025-26 season

James’ time with the Lakers has been marked by injuries that have caused him to miss more games compared to his early years in the league. Although there have been changes in coaches and management, there have also been successes. The Lakers won a championship in 2020, and James was the first player to get the Finals MVP with three different teams. The franchise celebrated James when he surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer in 2023. In 2024, the Lakers drafted Bronny, allowing James to fulfill his wish of playing with his son. The Golden State Warriors tried to sign James, but the Lakers refused. James expressed his commitment to the franchise. “I am a Laker, and I have been very happy being a Laker for the last six years and I hope it continues,” he said. The Lakers’ president of basketball operations, Rob Pelinka, made it clear that the franchise wants James to retire as a Laker. Nike’s “Forever King” campaign, the Cavaliers’ “Classic Edition” uniform, and the NBA schedule’s programming suggest a possible end for James, but the future is uncertain.

Re-sign with the Lakers

The Lakers project to have cap space to offer James a new maximum contract. He could sign a deal for up to three years for $188 million. Players Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves enjoy playing with James and want their partnership to continue. Doncic, who admired James, believes it’s crucial for the Lakers to win now. He isn’t intimidated by the attention that playing with James could generate because he already experienced a similar situation with Dirk Nowitzki. If the Lakers win the championship, would James seek to defend the title or would he see that as the perfect ending?

Request a contract exchange or termination

James’ priority is to win. If the Lakers struggle, he might choose to leave. However, there are few viable options due to his no-trade clause and the salary limitations of other teams, such as the Cavaliers and the Mavericks.

Signing with Another Team as a Free Agent

In 2026, several teams will have cap space, but moving would be a big change for James. He would compete with other stars like Kevin Durant and Trae Young, which could affect interest in him. James’ situation remains uncertain, and his 23rd season could be the beginning of the end or the prelude to an even longer career, or his body could make the decision. A source close to James said that no one knows when he will retire. For now, James is focused on the present. “I don’t worry about yesterday and I don’t try to focus on the future,” he said. “It’s about staying present.”