Lakers' LeBron James Strongly Urged to Retire By Former NBA Big Man

Newsweek

07-06-2025

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has put together a career that places him on the "GOAT" list to many. At the very least, he's a legitimate contender to the title and the only other name on that list is Michael Jordan.
It is expected that James will make his return for another season in 2025-26. He is still playing at a high level and would have a full season playing with Luka Doncic next year.
He has played in 22 NBA season to this point in his career. Should he play next year, he would officially hold the record for most seasons played in the league. Right now, he is tied with Vince Carter for that record.
LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks towards the crowd during a timeout against the Denver Nuggets in the second half of the NBA Opening night game at Ball Arena on October 24,...
LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks towards the crowd during a timeout against the Denver Nuggets in the second half of the NBA Opening night game at Ball Arena on October 24, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. More
Photo byWhile James is expected to return for year 23, one former NBA big man does not think he should keep playing.
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During an appearance with Byron Scott on the "Fast Break" podcast, Olden Polynice spoke out with a pointed statement about James. He believes that it's time for the longtime superstar to call it a career.
"The longevity aspect, I think it's getting a little bit too much now," Polynice said. "Because I'm like, dude, what else you want to do? It's time for you (James) to start thinking about retiring. He ain't getting no fifth ring unless he buys one, It ain't happening."
Granted, there is obvious proof that James has started slowing down some. However, he is still putting up impressive numbers and making a massive impact night in and night out.
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Throughout the course of the 2024-25 NBA season, James played in 70 games. He averaged 24.4 points per game to go along with 8.2 assists, 7.8 rebounds, and a steal. In addition, he shot 51.3 percent from the floor and knocked down 37.6 percent of his three-point attempts.
Looking ahead to next season, the Lakers will need to make some offseason moves to get back into NBA Finals contention. Los Angeles needs more defense and also needs a legitimate starting center. Rob Pelinka has his work cut out for him.
Polynice may be right that the Lakers aren't a favorite to win a championship, but James is more than capable of continuing to play for another year or two if he chooses to do so. It's an eye-opening take, but it's an opinion that many disagree with.
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