As LeBron James enters his 23rd NBA season, speculation about his retirement continues to captivate fans and analysts alike.
The 40-year-old Los Angeles Lakers star, who recently exercised his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, is poised to extend his legendary career.
However, some insiders believe his decision to retire may be influenced by the Lakers‘ performance and also by family ties.
While James continues to produce at a high level on the court, the weight of two decades of professional basketball and the desire to prioritize his family are increasingly influencing his decisions.
Family considerations have long shaped conversations about LeBron‘s career trajectory.
With four children and a long-term partner, Savannah, the Lakers superstar has repeatedly emphasized that family will be his priority once he steps away from basketball.
This year, whispers about him potentially sharing the court with his youngest son, Bryce James, have intensified the discussion around his retirement timeline.
The timing aligns with Bryce‘s projected eligibility for the 2026 NBA Draft, suggesting LeBron could extend his career to overlap with his son’s rookie season.
An NBA executive, speaking to Lakers Daily, suggested that James is unlikely to retire after the 2025-26 season unless the Lakers secure the championship.
The executive noted, “I think LeBron plays one or two more seasons unless the Lakers win it all next year. Bryce [James] will be eligible for the 2026 draft. There are some whispers that LeBron wants to play with him too.”
This indicates that James may aim to continue playing to potentially team up with his son, Bryce.
James‘s family-focused mindset complements his long-held dream of creating a father-and-sons trio on the Lakers.
On an April episode of his Mind the Game podcast, he shared, “Priority number one will be my wife. It would be my wife, my kids.”
LeBron’s legacy and future aspirations
James‘ decision to opt into his player option underscores his commitment to competing at the highest level.
Despite being the oldest active player in the NBA, he remains a dominant force on the court, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game during the 2024-25 season.
His performance continues to defy age, and he shows no signs of slowing down.
The prospect of playing alongside his son adds a compelling layer to James‘ future plans.
While the idea of father and son sharing an NBA court is rare, it has been a topic of discussion among fans and analysts.
If James were to continue playing beyond the 2025-26 season, it could set the stage for this unprecedented achievement.
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