The NBA without LeBron James would be a very different era. Based on his career and the legacy he has built around his name, there will be a void that may never be filled. But fans ought to consider themselves lucky as the King does not see himself leaving the game anytime soon. It is safe to say that LeBron has a lot of fuel left in the tank to compete for the next couple of years.
But James’ retirement was never heavily discussed as much as it is today. Mainly because he’s currently the oldest player in the league. He will be turning 39 by the end of 2023. And in about two years, if he decides to still compete, the former MVP will surpass Vince Carter for most seasons played in the NBA. He is currently on the verge of playing his 21st season this year and he hasn’t shown any signs of decline.
LeBron had Jaxson Hayes shocked mid interview doing windmills off an alley oop 😂😂
YEAR 21 🤦🏿♂️🔥 pic.twitter.com/MMk6M7VAwv
— Coach James 🇭🇹 (@JamesEdrick3) October 5, 2023
During training camp, Jaxson Hayes, the Los Angeles Lakers’ newest member was answering questions from the media. Hayes was describing his first few days of being a Laker while working under coach Darvin Ham, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis. In the midst of it, he was caught off guard by James who threw down a windmill dunk after an alley-oop to the backboard. Hayes seemed fairly impressed by the 38-year-old’s abilities.
Will LeBron James secure his fifth title next season?
LeBron James is a tough competitor regardless of the situation. He has always caused problems for his opponents on the court. But basketball is ultimately a team sport and James cannot succeed without a proper group. For instance, last season was a complete mess. The Lakers had a poor start to the season but somehow managed to clinch a play-in tournament berth by the end of the season. They were severe underdogs in the play-in tournament and through the playoffs. Despite it all they reached the Western Conference Finals.
Rob Pelinka made a bunch of changes to the roster during this off-season. And coach Ham believes that LeBron James might be in the best position of his Lakers career. He said, “He’s an elder wise man on the court, as well as off the court. He’s very calculated in the way he chooses his spots to do that. Now he has a ton of help. It’s only going to allow him to have that burst for longer stretches. He’s 100% healthy, he looks like third or fourth-year LeBron.”
Obviously signing Jaxson was a major step forward for the Lakers in terms of defense. However, acquiring Christian Wood might’ve been their best move so far. The Lakers made sure they found adequate backups for Davis and James. Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell have been major threats offensively. Wood will also take on a good role to fill in for James and Davis coming off the bench. LA has great odds of making it to the finals next season.