LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers is about to begin his 23rd season in the NBA, but it may be his last.
James is infamously very tight-lipped about his plans, and no one is sure what is next for the 21-time All-Star.
James’ former opponent, Paul Pierce, believes that James could be entering his final season in the NBA.
“I think this would be [LeBron James’] last season. He’s been the GOAT for so long, he’s maintained the stats. We appreciate what he brought to the game and how he held the mantle since Jordan left. Bron is one of them ones. We appreciate him, but I think his time is up, but we appreciate what he’s done for the league,” Pierce said.
“He’s been the GOAT for so long, he’s maintained the stats… I think his time is up but we appreciate what he’s done for the league.” 👀
– Paul Pierce on LeBron
(h/t @Fullcourtpass )
pic.twitter.com/zvAxXvf7rR
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 2, 2025
On one hand, it wouldn’t be surprising to hear that James is done playing in the league because he will be 41 years old this season and has been doing it for so long.
But on the other hand, he is still playing incredibly well and produced 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists last season.
Time isn’t really slowing James down, so he doesn’t have a reason to step away.
He actually has an incentive to keep playing because he is currently on the court along with his son, playing in Los Angeles, and could stick around and see his other son drafted soon.
When the time finally comes, most people expect James to make an announcement before his final season starts.
That would allow every team across the league to celebrate him one last time and give him the proper send-off he deserves.
James is definitely getting closer to the end of his career, but Pierce might be incorrect with this bold prediction.
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