While Luka Doncic prepares for a long-term role in Los Angeles, LeBron James admits he’s unsure about returning for a 23rd season after suffering his first career knee injury.

LeBron James

LeBron JamesLAPRESSE

After another early playoff exit, LeBron James is taking time away from the game, but not just to rest his body. The 40-year-old Lakers star is also facing a personal crossroads about whether he’ll return for a record-setting 23rd NBA season.

“I haven’t had the conversation with my family yet,” James shared during an appearance on the “Mind the Game” podcast with Steve Nash. “I’m just trying to enjoy some time with them right now and figure out what’s next.”

James has a $52.7 million player option for the 2024-25 season, which he must decide on by June 29. That decision will likely come down to both physical recovery and a deeper reflection on what motivates him to continue playing.

A rare injury at the worst time

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In the middle of the Lakers‘ first-round series against the Timberwolves, James collided with Donte DiVincenzo, suffering an MCL injury that locked up his left knee. Despite staying on the court to assess the damage, he immediately sensed it was unlike anything he’d experienced.

“This is my first knee injury in 22 years,” James said. “The pain was different.”

Doctors estimate a four-to-six-week recovery period, meaning he should be healthy in time for training camp, if he chooses to return.

A new era for the Lakers?

While James remains undecided, Luka Doncic is expected to commit long-term to the Lakers and become the franchise’s centerpiece. James made it clear, however, that he doesn’t want to be responsible for shaping Doncic’s future.

“Luka’s got to decide for himself,” James told ESPN. “He’s 26. I’m 40. I’m not going to be around much longer.”

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It’s a candid acknowledgment that a generational handoff may already be in motion in Los Angeles, and that James, while still effective on the court, is nearing the end of his legendary run.

No official retirement plans, yet

Despite speculation, insiders like Shams Charania report that James is still expected to return for at least one more season. But until James makes his final call, the Lakers, and the league, remain in limbo, waiting on the king’s next move.