James claims that he has not yet made a decision! Another year is expected: retirement is still a possibility

On May 9, Beijing time, Lakers star James revealed in the latest podcast that he has not yet made a decision on the future. "I haven't talked to my family about my plans for the future, whatever happens in the end," said James, 40, "but we'll see." ”

The Lakers were knocked out of the playoffs by the Timberwolves last week, and the offseason came much sooner than everyone expected. This summer, the Lakers faced a lot of pressing issues, one of the most focused on revolving around the departure of the team's superstar James.

James could either become a free agent this summer or opt out as a retirement. The star has delved into this topic several times over the past few offseasons, and now it seems that the end of his career is getting closer and closer. James has a $52.6 million player option, and many in the league expect him to play another season. However, until the last minute, there is no guarantee that James will return to the court next season. If he decides to continue playing in the NBA, it will be his 23rd season in the NBA, and it will also mean that he is expected to embark on a farewell tour.

It remains to be seen what James will ultimately choose. But it is undeniable that he still maintains a very high level of competition. Despite turning 40, James is still one of the best players in the league and has not seen a significant dip in form.

Former NBA player Pierce had advised the Lakers to "give up" to James and rebuild for the future. The future of the Lakers is uncertain, and James has previously admitted: "I have a lot of things to think about myself...... I don't know what the squad will be like next season or where I'm in the team. When it came to Doncic's trade, James also said, "That's not my thing...... This deal is for the future of the team, and it has nothing to do with me. ”

James could opt out of his contract with another team, and if James chooses to exercise his $52.7 million player option, the Lakers could face tight salary space. Although James has not yet confirmed his future, he once sighed: "Damn, I can't stay in the league for long." With many expecting Doncic to succeed James as the new core of the Lakers, James also made it clear: "He's only 26 years old, I'm 40 years old, and he can't tie his career to me, that's a fact." ”

What choice will James make? Time will tell.