Why I Think LeBron James Will Only Play Two More Years

The 2024-25 NBA season will mark NBA legend LeBron James' 22nd season, and with that, we are reaching the end of an NBA era. LeBron has reached the point in his career where everything is year to year and while his longevity can not even be compared to anyone in sports besides Tom Brady, the soon-to-be forty-year-old probably does not have much time left in the NBA. Many people have suggested that he could potentially play for another 4-5 years, but I think James will play for two more seasons before stepping away from the league.

Let's get the obvious done quickly, James has already accomplished everything he set out to do as a player, from MVPs to championships to being the game's all-time leading scorer. Now he is on the verge of his final NBA goal, to play alongside his son, Bronny. His firstborn was drafted 55th overall in the NBA draft by the Los Angeles Lakers and with that dream on the verge of becoming a reality this October, there is not much left for him to accomplish. It's not as if the Lakers are on the verge of winning an NBA championship, so I believe the two years will be all about soaking up as much time on the court as possible with his son.

Aside from Bronny, I know it may sound dumb, but the 2025-26 season would mark LeBron’s 23rd season in the league, obviously matching his jersey number, I know that may sound like nothing, but I do think it's something. Additionally, the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, which would be his final one if he announces that 2025-26 will be his final year, is set to take place in Los Angeles at the new Innuit Dome. That whole All-Star weekend could be pitched as a celebration or early retirement party for LeBron in city he plays in with the whole sports world's eyes on it.

Also, with the new TV deals done, I expect the NBA to announce expansion teams in Las Vegas and Seattle within the next 18 months. James has not shied away from mentioning how NBA ownership has always been a long time of his goal when he retires, and specifically when bringing up the possibility of bringing the NBA to Las Vegas, he has constantly stated how badly he wants to be involved in that venture. If he decides to prolong his playing career and the Vegas team gets announced, it may compromise his dream of owning that franchise.

As LeBron James is my favourite athlete of all time, it is sad for me that I may not have much longer to enjoy him as a player, especially with the fact I have never seen him play live. But, because he has nothing left to prove, about to fulfill his dream of playing with his son and the 2026 All-Star Game being in Los Angeles, I think 2025-26 will be the last final year in the league for James. Not to mention, with expansion in Las Vegas on the horizon, it creates a transition to ownership which has always wanted to do. Given these factors, I think we get two more seasons from James before he steps away from playing on his terms.