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LeBron James Faces Retirement Calls After Lakers’ Playoff Exit

LeBron James struggled as the Lakers were eliminated from the NBA playoffs

The Los Angeles Lakers’ season ended abruptly Wednesday night with a 103-98 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, sparking widespread calls for 40-year-old LeBron James to retire. The defeat marked the Lakers’ first-round playoff exit with a 4-1 series loss, despite James’ 22-point performance.

Fans flooded social media with reactions to the basketball legend’s underwhelming fourth-quarter showing, where he managed just 3 points. One fan tweeted: "LeBron needs to retire – he’s lost a step compared to younger players." Another added: "Michael Jordan knew when to walk away. It’s time."

The 20-year veteran has hinted at retirement throughout the season. When asked about future appearances at Madison Square Garden in February, James told reporters, "Possibly. We’ll see." During a recent podcast appearance, he revealed: "If I ever lose that pre-game preparation drive, that’s when I’ll know it’s time."

The 4-time NBA champion showed rare signs of frustration during the elimination game

Career at a Crossroads

Key career highlights:

• 4× NBA Champion (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020)
• 4× MVP (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013)
• NBA’s all-time leading scorer (38,387 points)
• $104 million contract through 2024-25 season

While James remains productive – averaging 25.7 points this season – critics note his defensive lapses and reduced fourth-quarter impact. The Timberwolves’ Rudy Gobert outrebounded James 18-7 in the decisive Game 5.

Family Factors

The basketball icon’s son Bronny, 20, joined the Lakers’ G-League affiliate in 2024. However, the younger James has only appeared in 12 games, averaging 4.8 points. When asked about mentoring his son, LeBron stated: "I want him to carve his own path."

James has been noncommittal about his future plans

As the NBA shifts toward younger stars like Luka Dončić and Anthony Edwards, many analysts believe this playoff exit could mark the end of an era. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith commented: "Father Time remains undefeated. Even legends must eventually step aside."

With training camp 5 months away, the basketball world awaits James’ decision on whether to return for a record-tying 22nd season or conclude his historic career.