Should Next Season Be ‘The King’s’ Last Season?
The simple answer is no. Lebron James this season averaged 24 points per game at 40 years old. Usually, when a superstar of James' caliber is close to retiring, the usual indicator is that they can barely even score double figures in a game anymore. James was the second-best player on a title-contending team. A few roster moves this offseason, and the Lakers can be back in the hunt or even be the favorites to win the title next year.
The failed experiment, well, at least for the most part of the Anthony Davis and Lebron James era, took a toll on James' health. Multiple times throughout the last five or six seasons, James dealt with a nagging groin injury. The injury has returned at least once every season since the pandemic. These injuries, along with the grade two MCL sprain James suffered to end the season. These factors led me to believe that the Lakers have another season to attempt to win a title before James leaves. Luka Doncic's arrival delays the James retirement tour due to the rejuvenation the Lakers have experienced in winning a championship. I would give them one more try to see if it works.
The Lakers should treat next season as James's last chance to win another title. After next season, I don’t think there will be much opportunity at all to win a title. Updating the roster and having a second season with a new superstar doesn't get the job done. What else will happen with Lebron being in his early 40s and regressing each year? Some of the other minor reasons include ratings, sales, and merchandise.
Finally, it's because James can, at the very least, be a great six-man, as crazy as it sounds. The Lakers' addition of another star could move LeBron to the bench. LeBron has shown he still has plenty in the tank, no matter what his role is. Inspiring the team and utilizing his basketball IQ on the roster is an unmatched responsibility for the team. Additionally, being traded is something that has been floating around. While I don’t think it will happen, LeBron getting traded is another trump card the Lakers can play to improve the roster further if all goes south. One beautiful scenario would be LeBron being traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers to end his career, not next season, but the one after. That would be a nice ending to one of the greatest of all time.
