The Oklahoma City Thunder closed out the Los Angeles Lakers 115-110 on Monday night to complete a sweep of the second-round series, and the question that followed Laker star LeBron James off the court was whether the 41-year-old's contract with Los Angeles had expired, and retirement is a word the basketball world has been circling around his name for months. After Game 4, the question was asked directly.
"With my future, I don't know. Obviously we still fresh from obviously losing. I don't know what the future holds for me as of right now tonight. I've got a lot of time. I'll go back and recalibrate with my family and talk with them, spend some time with them. When the time comes, obviously you guys will know what I decide to do."
It is the same posture he has held all season. James concluded his record 23rd NBA season, averaging 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game in 60 regular-season appearances. He noted after the loss that "there's nothing I need to show in this league," though he cited competing for championships as always being his reason to play.
What comes next for LeBron and the Lakers in free agency
James' two-year, $101.35 million contract with the Lakers is now finished, making him an unrestricted free agent.
The Cavaliers, Warriors, and Knicks have been mentioned as teams that could pursue him, though none is expected to have the cap space to offer more than the mid-level exception.
The Lakers, holding full Bird Rights, are the best-positioned team to offer him a substantial salary, but their willingness to do so will depend on what other moves they have planned.
Against the Thunder, James finished Game 4 with 24 points and 12 rebounds. ESPN described Monday night as potentially "his final game as an NBA player." Will that be? It truly depends entirely on what those family conversations produce this summer. He has earned the right to take his time.
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