Kendrick Perkins says NBA isn’t ready for life after LeBron James
kendrick-perkins-nba-not-ready-for-life-after-lebron-james
New York, Feb. 16, 2026 — Former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins believes the league is unprepared for the day LeBron James hangs up his sneakers. Asked whether the NBA is ready for a post-LeBron era, Perkins replied bluntly, “Hell no.”
Perkins, who won a title with the 2008 Boston Celtics before turning to television commentary, made the remark during an appearance highlighted by the New York Post on Friday. While he did not elaborate on specific concerns, his brief assessment underscored the outsized impact James continues to have on the sport in his 23rd season.
The statement comes as speculation grows about when the four-time MVP, now 41, might retire. James has not publicly set a timetable, but the Los Angeles Lakers star has said he hopes to share an NBA court with his eldest son, Bronny, before stepping away.
LeBron’s eventual departure would end a career that spans two decades, four championships and the league’s all-time scoring record—leaving a marketing and competitive gap the NBA has rarely faced with a single player.
Perkins’ two-word response captures the uncertainty that surrounds that looming transition.
Source: New York Post
