Questions surrounding LeBron James’ future continue to dominate NBA conversations following the Los Angeles Lakers’ playoff elimination, and former teammate DeMarcus Cousins recently offered a bold prediction regarding how much longer the four-time champion could continue playing.
In an interview with Damien Peters of Basketball Network, Cousins joked that James may still have another decade remaining in his career after continuing to perform at a high level during his 23rd NBA season.
“I mean y’all saw LeBron play… I think he’s got another 10 years left,” Cousins said. “I couldn’t go out there and do that.”
Cousins went on to reflect on his admiration for James, both as a player and as one of the defining figures of his generation.
“For a guy who I grew up watching as a kid, I was a part of his camps as a young kid – it will be a sad day,” Cousins said. “I’m a guy that appreciates LeBron James. I know a lot of people hate him, I’m a guy that appreciates his legacy and what he’s done for the game and young athletes.”
Cousins also highlighted James’ professionalism and longevity, pointing to the standard he has set for younger players entering the league.
"I think he's got another 10 years left. … I'm a guy that appreciates LeBron James. I know a lot of people have mixed feelings… I'm a guy that appreciates his legacy and what he's done for the game."
—DeMarcus Cousins
(via @DamienPetersNBA)pic.twitter.com/mvwuwlaEBM
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 13, 2026
“Creating a blueprint on how to carry yourself on and off the court, how to take care of your body and be the ultimate professional,” Cousins said. “I appreciate everything he’s brought to the game.”
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DeMarcus Cousins expects LeBron James to return despite retirement speculation
While the idea of James playing another 10 seasons was clearly exaggerated, Cousins added that he still expects the Lakers star to return next year despite growing speculation surrounding retirement.
“My gut feeling is that he plays next year,” Cousins said. “Whenever he decides to make it his last, I hope he goes out and gets the flowers he deserves.”
James recently completed his 23rd NBA season at age 41, continuing to produce at an elite level despite transitioning into a different offensive role alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. During the regular season, he averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, 6.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game while shooting 51.5 percent from the field across 60 appearances.
In the postseason, James averaged 23.2 points, 7.3 assists and 6.7 rebounds while helping guide Los Angeles past the Houston Rockets in the first round before the Lakers were eliminated by the Oklahoma City Thunder in four games during the Western Conference semifinals.
As speculation surrounding James’ future intensifies, Cousins’ comments reflect the continued respect many around the league still hold for one of the most accomplished players in NBA history.
Questions surrounding LeBron James’ future continue to dominate NBA conversations following the Los Angeles Lakers’ playoff elimination, and former teammate DeMarcus Cousins recently offered a bold prediction regarding how much longer the four-time champion could continue playing.