LeBron James retirement remains a subplot as the LA Lakers play against the Houston Rockets in the first round of the NBA Playoffs. However, if a recent report on James’ business partner Maverick Carter is to be believed, the Lakers’ star could be playing in his final few games as an NBA player.
According to a report by Semafor, Carter cited that media and technology landscape changes could give James more options and potentially expedite his decision to retire as a basketball player.
“In an appearance at last week’s Semafor World Economy gathering, Maverick Carter said that changes in the tech and media landscape allowed James some flexibility in terms of his next moves once he retires,” the report wrote. “Which could be as soon as later this month, if the Lakers fall to the Houston Rockets in the first round of the NBA playoffs, or after next season.”
“In an appearance at last week’s Semafor World Economy gathering, Maverick Carter said that changes in the tech and media landscape allowed James
Carter and James own the media company Fulwell. The company produces James’ podcast “Mind the Game,” which he hosts with current Lakers head coach JJ Redick during its first season.
The Lakers won Game 1 against the Rockets, but there are still concerns about the LA squad’s chances against Houston as they deal with injuries to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
James had 19 points, 13 assists, and eight rebounds in Game 1 against the Rockets to orchestrate the Lakers’ win.
James has long been mum about his retirement plans, but has hinted that it is coming sooner rather than later.
His current contract will expire after this season, leaving every possible option open for James, who is currently 41 years old and is the oldest active player this season.
Since no announcement has been made yet about James’ retirement, many have speculated that he could still play for at least one more season, potentially back in his hometown of Cleveland, considering the Lakers’ possible shift of focus on Doncic.
NBA Commissioner Addresses LeBron James Looming Retirement
GettyAdam Silver reflects on LeBron James’ possible retirement this season.
The NBA has also been watching closely on LeBron James’ retirement plans, as revealed by league commissioner Adam Silver.
According to Silver, he wants to see James play as long as he desires, considering his body of work and ability to contribute to any team.
“You know, I want LeBron to play as long as he actually wants to play,” he said in an interview by WFAN. “I mean, he’s not just a 41-year-old player in the league with the most points ever in so many different categories, but he’s still playing at an incredibly high level. It’s not like he’s just sort of out there.”
Silver added that all the current signs right now are indicating LeBron’s return next season.
“I haven’t talked to him since the season ended. I mean, I have every indication that he plans to keep playing next season,” he said.
James appeared in 60 games this year after spending the first month of the season rehabbing from a sciatica injury. He looked healthy the rest of the season, helping the Lakers reach the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference.
LeBron James Returns to Action on Tuesday
GettyLeBron James will lead the Lakers against the Rockets in Game 2.
LeBron James will be returning to action on Tuesday during Game 2 of the first round against the Rockets.
There, he is expected to match up against old rival Kevin Durant, who missed the series opener due to a knee injury.
James will remain as the Lakers’ top option during the game as they will still miss Doncic and Reaves.
LeBron James Business Partner Drops Huge Hint on Lakers Star’s Retirement