LeBron James continues to defy expectations in his 22nd NBA season, and one insider believes retirement is not on the horizon.
Speaking on ESPN’s Get Up, Brian Windhorst dismissed the notion that James is nearing the end of his career. “Unlike other people, I don’t think the end is near for LeBron James. I think he’s got runway left,” Windhorst said. “I think he can still be an All-NBA player next year.”
James, who turned 40 in December, is averaging 24.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 9 assists in 34.5 minutes per game. He remains one of the league’s most productive players.
Los Angeles (32-20) currently sits fifth in the Western Conference, positioning itself for another playoff push. The Lakers recently made a franchise-altering move by trading Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks for Luka Doncic, signaling a long-term vision for sustained success.
Windhorst believes the move strengthens the Lakers’ championship aspirations and extends James’ competitive window. “I see no reason why, a year from now, they can’t be a team that is really hunting for that top spot—that title,” he said.
One of the biggest storylines this season has been James fulfilling his dream of playing alongside his eldest son, Bronny. The Lakers selected Bronny with the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, making them the first father-son duo to share an NBA roster.
James has expressed his desire to continue playing at a high level for as long as possible, potentially staying in the league long enough to see his younger son, Bryce, make his NBA debut in the coming years.
Despite being the oldest active player, James has shown no signs of decline. His versatility and durability remain key factors in the Lakers’ success, and with the addition of Doncic, Los Angeles now has a young superstar to complement James as he extends his career.
The Lakers’ front office appears committed to building a contender around James, with plans to add a big man over the summer. The organization’s vision aligns with James’ stated goal of competing for championships rather than riding out the final years of his career.
