Los Angeles Lakers governor Jeanie Buss stated that whether LeBron James returns to the franchise will be left solely to the 41-year-old forward, who can enter free agency this summer.
“I’ve always said I want to see him retire as a Laker, but he’s going to be a free agent,” Buss told ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith in an interview aired this week. “It’s really his decision to make. He is a valuable player in this league, even in his 23rd season.”
Buss acknowledged that James may weigh several options or choose to end his career quietly. She compared the situation to Kobe Bryant, who announced in November of his final season that he would retire, allowing fans across the league to honor him. “I think LeBron would probably experience the same thing, but it’s up to the individual,” she said.
The remarks come amid recurring reports of a strained relationship between Buss and James, including a 2022 claim that the team considered trading the four-time MVP. Both parties have repeatedly denied any rift. After those reports surfaced, Buss released a statement thanking James for his contributions and apologizing for the public scrutiny.
James, who joined Los Angeles in 2018 and helped capture the 2020 NBA championship, has not indicated when he plans to retire. For now, the Lakers remain focused on their current playoff push while speculation about his long-term plans continues.
Source: LakersNation.com
