Former NBA coach George Karl has weighed in on LeBron James’ career, suggesting the Lakers star should consider stepping away from the game.
“LeBron has done so much for our Game. And we are all grateful for it! And it’s time for him to ride into the sunset as a player,” Karl tweeted.
James, who turns 40 later this month, continues to perform at a high level, averaging 23 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 9.1 assists across 35 minutes per game. Despite his remarkable production in his 22nd season, concerns over his heavy workload and the Lakers’ reliance on him have been growing.
The Lakers sit eighth in the Western Conference standings with a 13-11 record. However, inconsistency and injuries have disrupted their season, leaving James to shoulder a significant portion of the team’s responsibilities.
Karl’s comments echo sentiments expressed by others, including Vince Carter, who recently emphasized the importance of pacing James’ minutes. Carter highlighted the need for the Lakers to prioritize the latter half of the season, rather than risking overextending their star early.
James’ longevity is unmatched in NBA history, as he has sustained elite performance levels across 22 seasons. His career includes multiple championships, MVPs, and extensive playoff runs, all of which have contributed to his heavy mileage on the court.
