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The arrival of Bronny James to the Los Angeles Lakers, coupled with LeBron James' decision to enter free agency, has reignited speculation about when 'The King' will hang up his sneakers. LeBron, who will turn 40 during the upcoming season in December, has left fans and analysts pondering his retirement timeline.
Bryce James: A Crucial Clue?
Bryce James, LeBron's 17-year-old middle son, has provided some insight into this burning question. Bryce, who is also aiming for an NBA career, potentially joining the league in the 2026 draft, was asked during an Instagram live session if he believes his father will wait for him to enter the NBA before retiring.
"No... He'll be 42 years old, that's too much," the Sierra Canyon High School player responded.
Bryce's statement suggests that LeBron might not extend his career beyond June 2026, when Bryce would be eligible for the NBA draft. By then, LeBron would still be 41 but would turn 42 during what could be Bryce's rookie season.
Lakers' Offer: A Tempting Proposition
Contrary to Bryce's belief, the Lakers are reportedly preparing to offer LeBron a three-year, $162 million contract. This deal would keep him active through June 2027, pushing his retirement age to 42. While the exact terms of LeBron's new contract remain uncertain, Bryce's comments have added another layer of intrigue to the ongoing speculation.
What's Next for the James Family?
The potential for LeBron to play alongside both of his sons in the NBA is a tantalizing prospect for fans and the league alike. Bronny's recent addition to the Lakers has already created a buzz, and if Bryce follows in his brother's footsteps, it could lead to a historic family legacy in the NBA.
As we await official confirmation of LeBron's plans, one thing is clear: the James family continues to captivate the basketball world, with every move they make closely watched and analyzed. Whether LeBron decides to extend his career to witness Bryce's NBA debut or opts for an earlier retirement, the impact of his decision will be felt across the league.
Editor: Emiliia Morozova
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