LeBron James may still be averaging more than 20 points per game in his record 23rd NBA season, but there is little doubt that he is in the twilight of his career. With Luka Doncic continuing to ascend in Los Angeles, many believe the 2025–26 season could be his last in purple and gold.
James joined the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2018–19 season. Although his first year was marred by injury, he led Los Angeles to an NBA championship the following season. Since then, however, postseason success has been limited. With Austin Reaves and Doncic viewed as key pieces of the franchise’s future, speculation about James’ future has only intensified.
The 41-year-old is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season and will likely have plenty of offers on the table, including the option to re-sign with the Lakers. However, franchise legend and former NBA Coach of the Year Byron Scott is not in favor of that outcome.
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Speaking on Los Angeles radio station Power 106, Scott made it clear that he believes it is time for James to move on, regardless of whether he chooses to retire.
“I just thought it was laughable, coming from one of the greatest players to ever play the game, that it was harder to play now than it was then,” Scott said. “I’m a fan, but I don’t mince words. I think this should be his last year here. . .you don’t got to go home, but you got to get the hell up out of here.”
While Scott’s stance appears more emotional than rooted in roster construction, James’ legacy in Los Angeles remains secure. He helped restore the franchise’s relevance following Kobe Bryant’s retirement, and although deep playoff runs have been scarce in recent seasons, the Lakers are rarely counted out with James on the floor.
This season, James has appeared in 40 games, averaging 21.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 7.0 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. He is shooting 49.8 percent from the field, 29.9 percent from three-point range, and 74.8 percent from the free-throw line.
Winning a fifth championship would likely make the decision easier for James this offseason, but the Lakers are far from favorites at this stage, and his future in Los Angeles could ultimately hinge on how this season unfolds.