“This is the end. Hold your breath and count to ten.”

Adele’s words ring true as we approach the conclusion of one of the most accomplished players in NBA history. For years, many have been wondering when LeBron James will finally call it a career. James’ critics eagerly awaited for the moment Father Time would be able to claim another victim, while his more ardent followers continue to preach appreciation for James in his final playing years. 

Now, we’re seeing that the end may be in sight. 

Before anything else, let’s be clear; money isn’t an issue here because James deserves it. In fact, the $52.6 million he is set to earn in 2025-2026 is the 14th-highest in the NBA, with Stephen Curry earning $59.6 million (which we all know is also well-deserved). There are certainly 13 more players who deserve to be paid more at this moment (due to age and potential, among others, but it can also be said that there still aren’t a lot that can claim to be better than him even at 40. 

James could have opted out and resigned his usual two-year contract, with the second year being a player option. After all, Bronny James Jr. is entering Year Two of his four-year, $7.9-million contract so LeBron can still make history as the only NBA player to play with two sons (and naturally lose that milestone game) once Bryce is eligible.. But it’s clear that this time is different. 

James’ title window is more likely to close now than in five years, so win now is the only option. However, the Los Angeles Lakers are now Luka Doncic’s team and with Doncic having just turned 26 years old last February, their timelines are not exactly aligned. 

The decision to sign Jake LaRavia confirms this, as the Lakers were willing to part with Luka’s BFF Dorian Finney-Smith in order to get a cheaper and better shooter (at least on paper). Los Angeles’ decision to wait-and-see as opposing teams sign and trade for players means they’re being patient, though likely to a fault. 

Retirement may not be in the near term for James, so we will likely see James either have another reunion with the Cleveland Cavaliers or he may find himself in another city.  Rumors of James’ next destination have heated up, with the Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, and even the Dallas Mavericks among the teams who could try to convince James to have one last dance. 

That being said, James remains a major domino in free agency. 

Since the announcement of James opting in, a flurry of trades and free agent deals have been completed, from the Boston Celtics signing Luka Garza to the shocker (or should we say SHOCKER) that the Milwaukee Bucks pulled off in signing Myles Turner and waiving Damian Lillard. 

LeBron James’ decision for this upcoming decision may have cleared up some uncertainty, but there remain some questions about his future. James is clearly focused on the now and it’s up to the Los Angeles Lakers to balance James’ needs with that of their future.