LeBron James will enter 2025-2026 NBA season at the age of 40, chasing history with Lakers. Will he retire after this season? Latest on his stats, Bronny’s draft & legacy.
LeBron James’ Pivotal 2025 Season: Retirement or One More Run?
NBA legend LeBron James begins his 22nd professional season in 2025 as the oldest active player at 40, defying Father Time while chasing elusive milestones. With his son Bronny entering the draft and the Lakers retooling their roster, this season could mark the end of an era. Can the 4-time MVP deliver one final championship before hanging up his sneakers?
LeBron by the Numbers (2024-25 Season)
| Stat | Performance | NBA Rank |
|---|---|---|
| PPG | 24.1 | Top 20 |
| APG | 7.4 | Top 10 |
| MPG | 32.5 | Controlled |
| FG% | 50.3% | Elite for SF |
Source: NBA Advanced Stats
Chasing History: Milestones Within Reach
✔ 50,000 Career Points (Currently at 49,892)
✔ 5th Championship (Would tie Kobe, Duncan)
✔ First 40-Year-Old Finals MVP
The Bronny Factor: Father-Son NBA Dream
Potential Scenarios
- Lakers Draft Bronny: Creates historic duo
- LeBron Takes Pay Cut: To accommodate team needs
- Retirement Decision: Linked to son’s draft position
Lakers’ Championship Window
Roster Upgrades
- Signed All-Star guard (Dejounte Murray)
- Added 3-point specialists
- Anthony Davis’ health crucial
Western Conference Threats
- Defending champ Nuggets
- Revamped Suns
- Young Thunder
LeBron’s Evolving Game at 40
Adaptations
- More post-up play (68% efficiency)
- Reduced transition bursts
- Elite passing (career-high 38% assist rate)
Load Management
- Sitting back-to-backs
- Playoff minutes restriction planned
Off-Court Business Empire
✔ SpringHill Co. worth $750M
✔ Liverpool FC Stake valued at $90M
✔ Space Jam 3 in development
Retirement Rumors & Clues
- “I’m on borrowed time” (2024 interview)
- Player option for 2025-26 ($51M)
- Cryptic social media posts
Expert Predictions
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst:
“He’s chasing Kareem’s minutes record but wants one more ring.”
The Athletic’s Shams Charania:
“Lakers are preparing contingency plans for post-LeBron era.”
Fan Sentiment & Social Media Buzz
- #LeBronFinalSeason trends monthly
- Jersey sales still top 5
- Road games sell out instantly
Possible 2025 Outcomes
- Storybook Ending: Title with Bronny
- Farewell Tour: Kobe-style celebrations
- Shock Return: 2-year extension
Legacy Cementing Moments
- Potentially last All-Star appearance
- Final games against rivals (Warriors, Celtics)
- Possible Olympic swan song
Final Verdict: Enjoy Every Possession
As LeBron James navigates what may be his final NBA season, each game becomes must-watch television. Whether chasing records, mentoring his son, or willing the Lakers to contention, the greatest basketball story of this generation approaches its climax.