James discusses future retirement: It's somewhat like losing a loved one and holding a funeral, but it's also a celebration of life.

On March 7 Beijing time, Lakers star LeBron James has clearly begun contemplating how he wishes to conclude his NBA career as he approaches the end of his season at age 41.

"I somewhat view it as the time when you lose a loved one and hold a funeral," James said in an interview with Melissa Rohlin of the California Post. "People are usually sad, but it's simultaneously a celebration of life."

"For me, when I bid farewell to this sport, it will be a celebration, not a loss. I will celebrate all the achievements I've made on the basketball court, celebrate everything I've dedicated to it, those moments, and all the love."

James has played 44 games for the Lakers this season, averaging 21.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game. He has not yet confirmed whether he will choose to play another season after his Lakers contract expires this summer.

This uncertainty means James has not received retirement tribute ceremonies from various teams this season, although he received a touching tribute video when he returned to Cleveland in January.

There is external speculation that this Ohio-born star, a legend who played 11 seasons for the Cavaliers and won a championship, might return to his former team before retiring.

ESPN reporter Tim McMahon stated in February that rumors are swirling within the NBA circles: James might return to the Cleveland Cavaliers next year for a reunion drama, even potentially launching an epic farewell tour.

However, James previously indicated that whether he continues playing will entirely depend on whether his body can withstand the intensity of an NBA season.

The Athletic reporter Dan Woike recently reported: "Sources close to James revealed that he was serious when he told reporters on All-Star Sunday 'I don't know what the future holds.'" And among his teammates and coaches, there is no "truly unified view" regarding his direction.

"Although James may already have an inclination in his mind, one league source said he is smart enough to know that making irreversible decisions amidst the emotional fog brought by a long 82-game season is foolish," Woike wrote.

Currently, regardless of whether this is his final season, James hopes to lead the Lakers into the playoffs to conclude this season. The Lakers will host the Indiana Pacers on Saturday, currently holding a 37-25 record and ranking 6th in the Western Conference. James is sidelined for this game due to a left elbow contusion and left foot arthritis.