Amid the Los Angeles Lakers’ disappointing exit from the NBA playoffs, all eyes turned to LeBron James. The pressing question on everyone’s mind: will he retire, or will he continue his journey elsewhere?

Following the Lakers’ loss to the Denver Nuggets, speculation swirled around the 39-year-old basketball icon. Would he hang up his sneakers, considering retirement after last season’s contemplation? Or perhaps he’d opt for a change of scenery and depart Los Angeles?

Taking to social media on Tuesday, James directly addressed the swirling rumors about his future. “I’ve seen, heard a lot of reports about my future,” he wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter). “I said it last night and I’ll say it again. I do not know yet as I’m only thinking about spending time with my family & friends! When I know after speaking with the fam, my counsel as well as my representation about it then you guys will know. Until then [hush emoji]. Love [crown emoji].”

Should James decide to return, it would mark his remarkable 22nd year in the NBA since being drafted as the No. 1 overall pick back in 2003. Currently holding a player option for the 2024-25 season valued at $51 million, as reported by Spotrac, his decision looms large.

Following the Lakers’ playoff exit in Game 5, James remained tight-lipped when asked if it was his final appearance in a Lakers jersey. “I’m not going to answer that,” he responded.

His options are open: he could opt into his current contract and continue with the Lakers, a move he’s made previously, or he might explore the free agency market. The deadline for his decision falls on June 29th.

Age certainly hasn’t slowed down LeBron James, even in his 21st season. Throughout the year, he showcased his enduring prowess, playing 71 games and maintaining impressive averages of 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, 7.3 rebounds, 1.3 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game, with shooting splits of 54% from the field, 41% from beyond the arc, and 75% from the free-throw line.

In the playoff series against the reigning champions, the Denver Nuggets, James continued to deliver remarkable performances:

– Game 1: 27 points, eight assists, six rebounds, one steal, one block on 10-for-16 shooting

– Game 2: 26 points, 12 assists, eight rebounds, two steals, two blocks on 9-for-19 shooting

– Game 3: 26 points, nine assists, six rebounds, two steals, one block on 12-for-20 shooting

– Game 4: 30 points, five rebounds, four assists, three steals, one block on 14-for-23 shooting

– Game 5: 30 points, 11 assists, nine rebounds, four steals on 11-for-21 shooting

However, should James decide to retire, it would signify a rare defeat for Father Time, a testament to his unparalleled legacy in the NBA.

Speculation from ESPN’s Brian Windhorst suggests that James might lean toward the latter option. Should this materialize, it would mark the first time since 2018 that James has been up for grabs in free agency, a move that previously saw him depart Cleveland for Southern California.