LeBron James on retirement: 'I don't have much time left'

For the umpteenth time this season, Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James commented on his future and when he might decide to hang up his shoes for good. This time, he supplied a timeframe – sort of. 

Following the Lakers' win over the Brooklyn Nets Sunday night, James said, "Not very long, " when asked how long he plans to continue to play. 

"I'm not gonna play another 21 years, that's for damn sure. But not very long," James told Jovan Buha of The Athletic. "I don't know when that door will close as far as when I'll retire. But I don't have much time left." 

It's unclear how long "not very long" means to James. Though, in his 20th NBA season, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to know that the end is near. 

Even as Lakers star and future Hall of Famer continues to play at a high level at 39, questions surrounding his future have only increased as the 2023-2024 season has progressed. Most recently, James has discussed whether or not he would like to have a farewell tour during his final run or if he would instead go out like Tim Duncan and play his final game without anyone knowing. 

If James decides that this year or next will be his last, it won't be because of his diminishing skills. On Sunday, he scored 40 points against the Nets, including nine three-pointers, which tied a career-high. Furthermore, he is averaging 25.2 points (13th) and 8.1 assists (6th) on the season. 

James has hinted at retirement before, but that came after an emotional playoff loss to the Denver Nuggets last season. However, James' next move will likely be to another team, as he's long wanted to play in the NBA alongside his son, Bronny James, who is expected to join the league next season. 

The Lakers aren't guaranteed to be in a position to select Bronny in the 2024 NBA Draft, and James has stressed that he wants them to link up on the same squad "organically" or not at all. Regardless, James has a player option for 2024-2025, allowing him to become a free agent and sign with whichever franchise ends up with the heir apparent.