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LeBron James Called to Retire by Former NBA All-Star

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Elie Deglaoui | Last updated Jun 26, 2025 3:05 PM ET

After the Los Angeles Lakers' first-round playoff loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, NBA star LeBron James officially wrapped up his seventh season with the team and 23rd in the league.

With the offseason now officially here, James is a key player to keep an eye on. As has been the case for each of the past few seasons, there is some uncertainty about what his playing future will look like as the 40-year-old has a $52.6 million player option he must decide on this summer. As it stands, nothing is official.

Recently, a former NBA All-Star provided his opinion on what the Lakers star should do and urged him to retire and finally call it a career.

Though it is safe to assume his best days are behind him, James has shown he can still produce at a high level. Last season, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists, and 1 steal per game. However, despite another incredible season, retirement could still be an option for James, and that is exactly what former NBA guard Jeff Teague thinks he should do.

In a recent episode of the Club 520 Podcast, Teague urged James to retire, jokingly saying he is "tired."

“And Bron [LeBron James], this ain’t no disrespect. You my favorite player, bro. I think you the GOAT all-time. But I’m tired, bro," Teague said about James potentially retiring.

Regardless of whether James does retire this offseason or not, Los Angeles is in a good spot. They now have a full offseason with Luka Doncic on the team as they look to bolster their roster and re-solidify themselves as title contenders. Whether they will also have James past this summer or not remains to be seen.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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