Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic has not discussed LeBron James’ retirement timeline with him, according to a report by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.
McMenamin noted that both Doncic and guard Austin Reaves have avoided asking James about when he plans to end his career, choosing instead to respect the veteran’s process. The 40-year-old forward is entering his 23rd NBA season — an unprecedented mark in league history.
James, who exercised his $52.6 million option for the 2025–26 season, has not committed to playing beyond that year. When asked during the Lakers’ media day about retirement, James responded, “I don’t know. I’m excited about the opportunity to play the game that I love for another season… I don’t know when the end is, but I know it’s a lot sooner than later.”
The uncertainty surrounding James’ future has created speculation about how Los Angeles will shape its roster in the coming seasons. The front office must balance building around Doncic, 26, and Reaves, 27, while accommodating James’ pursuit of another title.
McMenamin reported that Doncic, who idolized James as a teenager, values their partnership and sees the four-time MVP as essential to the Lakers’ title hopes. The Slovenian guard has previously experienced a similar situation during Dirk Nowitzki’s final season in Dallas and views sharing the floor with another aging legend as an opportunity to learn.
James’ continued dominance remains unmatched. He holds the all-time scoring record with 42,184 career points and has appeared in 21 All-Star Games. Yet the question of how long he will extend his career persists, especially as he manages lingering nerve irritation and a recent sciatica issue.
Lakers president Rob Pelinka has said the organization would welcome the idea of James retiring in purple and gold. However, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul told ESPN that the veteran forward’s primary focus remains competing for a championship, even if that means evaluating other options later in his career.
