Dillon Brooks Says LeBron James “Has One More” Season Left, Calls Rivalry “A Pleasure”
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Los Angeles — Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks offered rare words of admiration for longtime adversary LeBron James after the Los Angeles Lakers were eliminated from the playoffs by the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Brooks attended the Lakers’ Game 4 loss at Crypto.com Arena, a defeat that completed a sweep in the Western Conference semifinals and left James, 41, non-committal about extending his playing career. Speaking with Yahoo Sports after the game, Brooks said he expects the NBA’s all-time leading scorer to return for a 24th season.
“I don’t think it’s his last year,” Brooks said. “I think he’s got one more in him. … It’s been amazing to watch overall, a pleasure to battle against him.”
Uncertain Off-Season Ahead
James will become an unrestricted free agent this summer, opening the door to several possibilities. A new deal with the Lakers remains on the table, and league sources have described mutual interest in a return. However, Los Angeles must also address expected raises for guard Austin Reaves and impending free agency for Rui Hachimura and Luke Kennard, factors that could require James to accept a reduced salary.
Speculation has also linked the four-time MVP to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks and Los Angeles Clippers, though the latter three are viewed as long-shot destinations.
If James elects to keep playing, Brooks hinted that their on-court battles will continue. The two have faced each other frequently since Brooks entered the league in 2017, including several contentious matchups in recent postseasons.
James has not provided a timetable for his decision, saying only that he plans to consult with his family before determining his future.
Source: Lakers Nation
