LeBron James considers retirement after Los Angeles Lakers playoff exit
LeBron James is considering retirement after the Los Angeles Lakers were swept from the playoffs by the Oklahoma City Thunder, leaving the NBA’s all-time leading scorer without a contract.
The 41-year-old’s 23rd professional season came to an abrupt end on Monday night following a 115-110 defeat.
This latest loss condemned the four-time MVP to only the third playoff series sweep defeat of his monumental 302-game postseason career.
With his current deal expiring, the basketball icon is now entirely uncommitted about his next steps in the sport.
Weighing up his options
Speculation surrounding the Ohio native’s future has steadily grown throughout the current campaign.
Following Monday’s elimination, the veteran forward admitted he needs time to evaluate an unprecedented career that began back in 2003.
“I don’t know what the future holds for me, obviously,” he said after the game.
“As it stands right now tonight, I’ve got a lot of time. I’ll sit back like I think I said last year after we lost to Minnesota, I’ll go back and recalibrate with my family and talk with them and spend some time with them.”
A potential farewell tour
This is not the first time the former first-overall draft pick has hinted at stepping away from the court.
During a poignant return to his hometown in January, he was visibly emotional while watching a pre-match tribute video presented by the Cleveland Cavaliers.
When asked previously about undertaking a final farewell tour across America, similar to the swansong of late Lakers great Kobe Bryant, he refused to rule out the possibility.
“I haven’t made a decision on the future but it very well could be,” he told reporters.
Lakers stay or fresh start?
If the legend decides against immediate retirement, several distinct avenues remain open to extend his playing days.
He could opt to re-sign with Los Angeles on a reduced contract, continuing a memorable tenure that recently saw him share the court with his son.
Alternatively, the Golden State Warriors and his former team, the Cavaliers, are both reportedly monitoring his availability with strong interest.
Having already cemented his status with four NBA titles, the sporting world now waits to see if basketball’s greatest scorer has played his final minute.