LeBron James has sparked retirement speculation with a teaser video shared on social media this weekend. The "Lakers" star, who just completed his first playoff run alongside Luka Doncic that ended in a first-round exit against Minnesota, posted a video that has NBA fans questioning his future.
In the promotional clip, James appears at a mock press conference where a reporter directly asks him: "Are the retirement rumors true? What's next?" The video cuts off right before his answer, but LeBron added a written comment that only fueled speculation.
"I've been asking myself the same question...," James wrote alongside a thinking emoji.
The timing is crucial. The 40-year-old forward has a player option worth $52.6 million for next season, and he must decide whether to activate it by the end of this month. While insider Shams Charania previously reported James would likely play another season, this latest post suggests retirement might be closer than expected.
Interestingly, many assumed Luka Doncic's arrival in Los Angeles would motivate LeBron to extend his career. The former Real Madrid star was seen as both an elite partner in James' quest for a fifth championship ring and someone LeBron could mentor as the future face of the franchise.
James is already sharing the court with his eldest son Bronny, and his younger son Bryce will be draft-eligible in 2026 - another potential reason to keep playing. But despite these factors, the NBA's all-time leading scorer appears to be seriously considering hanging up his sneakers.
Doncic has reportedly been working hard on his conditioning during the offseason, but could he end up missing the opportunity to play alongside one of basketball's greatest ever? The drama continues for the ex-Real Madrid star and "Lakers" fans everywhere.
