Even though LeBron James has the option of opting out of his contract and becoming a free agent this summer, there doesn't seem to be the same level of anticipation and anxiety surrounding his potential free agency as there was in the past when he was in the same position.
There is a good chance he will decline his player option next season and become a free agent. The Los Angeles Lakers anticipate LeBron James to continue with them in some capacity, and one story even claimed that he may opt-in instead.
According to Givemesport, Rich Paul said, “And you know, look, LeBron's a free agent. You have to decide, and I gotta focus on his business, and he should be focused on his business, and let the Lakers hire whoever they wanna hire. And he's always showed up and played for whatever coach is there.”
LeBron James earned him a spot on the All-NBA Third Team
According to reports, James' current plan includes playing two more seasons. He recently concluded his 21st season in the NBA, and despite reaching 39 years old, he has maintained the level of output he has shown throughout his career.
During his sixth NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers, James averaged 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game. This was his 21st year in the league. He made 41% of his field goals and 41% of his three-pointers. The numbers, at 39 years old, were comparable to his career average, and in some cases much higher.
His performances this season earned him a position on the Third Team All-NBA. His nomination to an All-NBA team was his twentieth. Despite this, there are still whispers that the Lakers would trade him this winter, particularly because his son Bronny is expected to be taken by a club in the 2024 NBA Draft.