When will LeBron James retire? Amongst the biggest ‘What’s Next?’ questions to swirl around the modern NBA world, this one might be the biggest. There is no denying that the Lakers star has set a new benchmark for physicality by continuing to serve as the team’s lead scorer even at the age of 40! However, the only other player to participate in as many consecutive seasons as LeBron James retired at the age of 43. Therefore, as much as one would love to deny it, the 4x NBA champion’s time is drawing to a close. For now, however, the player is taking all that retirement into speculation and saying ‘Not today’.

LeBron James and co recently recorded a memorable 128-112 win against the New York Knicks. What made the night more special was that the win was secured at Madison Square Garden! The NBA All-Time Scorer appreciated the gravitas of this situation, as he stated, “So many entertainers come here and rock the house. So many performers, and I’ve been blessed in my 22 years to be able to be a part of this history and this building. So, it’s always good to give back.” This compelled the reporter interviewing LeBron to ask whether he would play at MSG again. Not quite subtle! With a smile, LeBron replied with a “Possibly. We’ll see”.

Just like many game nights, LeBron James emerged as the lead scorer of the night, both amongst his teammates and rival players. He used his 37 minutes on the court to make 33 points, a whopping 11 rebounds, and 12 assists.

He attained that score by going 14-26 (53.8%) with his field goals, 3-8 (37.5%) with his three-pointers, and 2-4 (50.0%) with his free throws. The performance caused him to record a -1 efficiency rating. Despite that, it still pushed the Lakers to a point where they won the game by a 16-point margin. The breakout from LeBron’s side was especially needed since the team was playing without Anthony Davis.

The recent Lakers-Knicks matchup allowed LeBron James to become the first 40-year-old in NBA history with multiple triple-doubles. This is a clear indication that the player’s ability to dominate has not reduced with age. LeBron has been quite open about the health practices that allow him to keep his body and physicality in check. Despite this, even he admits not being fully aware of how he plays at his current level.

“I’m still doing this, Lisa,” LeBron added. “Man above has given me some great gifts. I’m trying to take full advantage of it. I’ve put all the work, all the dedication into the game, and it’s given me so much. So, I’ve no idea how I’m still doing this at this level.”

No one would know his limitations better than the 21x NBA All-Star. Given how things have transpired over the last few years, LeBron James continues to be confident about his longevity. Despite this, he also made it clear that he will have to convince himself to quit at some point.

Despite claiming he could go “another five to seven years”, LeBron James made it clear that he won’t

Back in late December, LeBron James celebrated his 40 birthday. The day to celebrate an important milestone, and for NBA enthusiasts to once again touch base on the retirement rumors.

In an interview with Coach K, the player discussed what the future holds for him. LeBron revealed that, if he listened to one part of his thought process, he would choose to go on. After all, “It won’t be because I can’t play this game at a high level. It won’t be because of that because, to be honest, if I really wanted to, I could probably play this game at a high level for about another–it’s weird I might say this–but I’ve got another five to seven years if I wanted to. But I’m not going to do that.” In the absence of a clear timeline, LeBron did indicate that his end would come in a Lakers jersey.

“I think that’s the plan. I would love for it to end here,” said James in a statement. “I came here to play my last stage of my career and finish it off here, but I’m also not silly or too jaded to know the business of the game as well, to know the business of basketball. But my relationship with this organization speaks for itself and hopefully I don’t have to go nowhere before my career is over.”

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