LeBron James’ future is up in the air, as he joins free agency this offseason. The Los Angeles Lakers faced a struggling postseason after Luka Doncic got sidelined due to a hamstring sprain. Responsibilities fell to James, but he could not lead the team past the conference semifinals. Amid questions about his retirement, James has made his feelings clear.
Featuring on the podcast hosted by James and former NBA player Steve Nash, Mind the Game, the 4-time NBA champion laid out his mindset before starting a season with a team. He said that all he wanted was to play with guys who were competitive and cared about winning.
King James explained:
“Because you want to be excited about going to work everyday. You want to be excited about, you know, like I said earlier, winning the day. And being around a group of guys that, you know, feel the same way and trying not to take steps backwards.
“You know, understand a season is a long marathon and whatever the case may be. But those building blocks throughout the course of the season is what matters to when you get to the sprint, which is now, you know, the postseason. So, yeah I’m not going anywhere it’s a start over at year 24 or things of that nature.”
In all probability, James will return for his 24th year. The Lakers’ management has made it clear that they were more than ready to give an offer to the King, provided he wanted to continue in the league. However, there is no official confirmation thus far.
“If it’s going somewhere else,” LeBron James opens up about free agency
LeBron James has completed his two-year, $110 million deal with the Lakers and is now an unrestricted free agent. While the franchise has officially expressed its wish to re-sign LBJ, he was not averse to the idea of moving on to somewhere else. In the above-mentioned podcast, James said:
“I haven’t even really thought about it too much. Obviously, I understand that I’m a free agent and I can control my own destiny — being here with [the Lakers] for a foreseeable future or if it’s going somewhere else.”
With Austin Reaves due for an extension and the team already accommodating Luka Doncic’s contract, James might have to take a pay cut to stay with the franchise. However, there is no official confirmation on it.
Several analysts and fans have speculated that James might find a new home with the Golden State Warriors. However, James has expressed his wish to end his season with the Lakers. It seems that he will be seen in the same colors next season.
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