While expectations were high this NBA postseason for the Los Angeles Lakers, with LeBron James and Luka Dončić leading the way, they ran into a buzzsaw in the Minnesota Timberwolves.
On Wednesday night, with their backs against the wall in a 3-1 series hole, the Lakers couldn't get the job done on their home floor to extend the series. Minnesota now advances to the second round, while the Lakers head home after suffering a gentlemen's sweep for the second straight season.
However, while the loss remains fresh, the question directed at 40-year-old James was inevitable regarding his plans moving forward and the possibility of retirement. He made his stance extremely clear in his postgame press conference.
"I don't have an answer to that," James said."I'll sit down with my wife, family and support group … have a conversation with myself on how long I want to continue to play. We'll see."
LeBron on what comes next: "I don't have an answer to that. I'll sit down with my wife, family and support group … have a conversation with myself on how long I want to continue to play. We'll see."
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) May 1, 2025
James finished Wednesday night with 22 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Despite his age, he has proven that he remains one of the best players in the world.
The question, however, is whether he still wants to endure an 82-game season and beyond when there's nothing left for him to prove. He will turn 41 in December, and next season would mark his 23rd year in the league since being drafted directly out of high school at 18.
He's also noted that, since his first NBA Finals appearance in 2007, anything less than a title is a disappointment in his eyes, with his most recent championship coming in 2020 with the Lakers.
"Every season that I didn't win the Finals is a disappointment. It's the same offseason... disappointment and (not being fulfilled). Nothing changes for me."
