LeBron James Contemplating Retirement After Lakers' WCF Exit, Sources Say

Photo: Instagram/LeBron James

According to sources from Bleacher Report and TNT, Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is contemplating retirement following the team's exit from the Western Conference Finals.

The decision of whether or not to return for the 2023-24 NBA season is currently uncertain for James, who has a lot to consider, as stated by insiders. 

Despite having two years and $97 million remaining on his contract, the final year includes a player option, adding to the complexity of his decision.

Photo: Instagram/LeBron James is currently considering retirement in the aftermath of the team's elimination from the Western Conference Finals.

The Lakers' recent sweep by the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals seems to have triggered this revelation. 

In a post-game interview, James expressed the need to carefully evaluate his future in basketball, suggesting that he has a lot on his mind.

If this marks the end of his career, James would retire as a four-time champion and four-time Finals MVP, holding the distinction of being the all-time leading scorer, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, as well as the all-time leader in playoff scoring with a significant 2,036-point lead over second-place Michael Jordan.

Throughout the season, LeBron has openly discussed his desire to play in the NBA alongside his oldest son, Bronny, who is projected to be part of the 2024 NBA Draft class.

Despite being 38 years old, James showcased his enduring skills this year and earned a spot on the All-NBA Third Team. With averages of 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game, he led the Lakers to the Western Conference Finals after a challenging start to the season with a 2-10 record.

Looking ahead to the 2023 offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers possess $29.6 million in practical cap space, according to Spotrac.

The team has minimal long-term financial commitments, as only six players, including James, Anthony Davis, Vanderbilt, Beasley, and Mo Bamba, are currently under contract for the 2023-24 season. This flexibility could potentially factor into James' decision-making process.

As LeBron James weighs his options and contemplates retirement, the NBA community eagerly awaits his final decision, which could have significant implications for the Lakers and the league as a whole.

Read Next: Auburn University Suspends Students Following Leaked Video Allegedly Depicting Inappropriate Behavior Involving Star Running Back Jarquez Hunter

Source: Breacher Report 

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