After the Thunder defeated the Lakers 115–110 in Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals on Monday, LeBron James‘s record 23rd season came to an end. For a significant amount of Los Angeles’s postseason run, James was in charge.
Although Austin Reaves returned late in the first round and Luka Dončić was unable to return, James managed to lead the Lakers past the Rockets in the initial round before the dreaded encounter with Oklahoma City. James recorded his 147th career postseason double-double with 24 points and 12 rebounds in the Year 23 finale.
James’s future is now more unknown, at least in the public eye, as a result of the Lakers’ playoff elimination. He has been candid about the expiration date looming over his remarkable career during this season. He hasn’t decided yet, but now that the Lakers’ season is finished, he has a lot of options.
This summer, he will be an unrestricted free agent with the freedom to decide what to do next. After spending the previous eight seasons in Los Angeles, he might re-sign with the team. He might join a new team like the Warriors or return to Cleveland for a third season and retirement tour with the Cavaliers. He might also decide to retire.
Since there hasn’t been an NBA without James since the year 2000, a quick retirement would be the unexpected choice. However, we have to keep the possibility open because James has stated that he is unsure of the future. After James’s record-breaking career, a retirement tour doesn’t seem likely, but it might be how he wants to end his life.
Sam Amick and Dan Woike of The Athletic reported last month that the idea that James would seek a farewell tour is untrue, citing people who have spoken with James directly.
Given this, it is quite possible that James’s game against the Thunder on Monday night was his final one. It may not be a very good chance, but it is still a possibility.
