30 Apr, 2024, 09:17 ET
LeBron James said he is undecided about his NBA future following the Lakers’ 108-106 loss to the Nuggets in Game 5 of their first-round playoff series on Monday night.
DENVER — LeBron James said he is undecided about his future in the NBA after the loss of the Los Angeles Lakers 108-106 in Game 5 of their first-round playoff series against the Denver Nuggets on Monday night.
James39, who finished his 21st season with 30 points, 11 assists, 9 rebounds and 4 steals in Los Angeles’ loss to the Nuggets, said his immediate focus will be on his family and then his gaze will shift to the field training for USA Basketball before the Paris Olympics this summer.
LeBron James during Game 5 of the first round series between the Lakers and Nuggets, which could have been his final game with the Lakers. Bart Young/NBAE/Getty Images
When asked how he would approach his decision about season 22, James replied: “I don’t have an answer… to be honest. I haven’t given it much thought.”.
He said he would eventually sit down with his agent, Rich Paul, and his family to evaluate “what’s best for my career.”
“We will cross that when necessary,” he added. James.
Editorial Selections
When asked if he considered If Monday’s game could be his last with the Lakers, James said: “I’m not going to answer that”.
James He has until June 29 to exercise the final year of his $51.4 million contract with the Lakers or become an unrestricted free agent.
The biggest question mark for Los Angeles next season beyond James is the status of coach Darvin Ham.. Ham’s job is in jeopardy after being eliminated in the first round, and the organization will make a decision on his coaching future in the coming days, sources told ESPN.
Ham reflected on his two seasons leading the bench for the Lakers.
“My mind is spinning right now, so it’s a big question, but maybe at some point I’ll give you an answer,” Ham said. “But it’s been an incredible two years, I tell you. Sitting in this seat, it’s been an incredible two years. A lot of good things were done, but in the end, you want to win that ultimate prize. I know what it feels like. I had that feeling a couple of times.
“So you want to do everything in your power to not stop it and continue to feel this feeling that we’re feeling right now, the feeling of defeat. So again, control what I can control, continue to grow and hopefully be a better coach”.”
Anthony Daviswho is under contract through 2027-28 with the Lakers, scored 18 points on 8-of-11 shooting with 15 rebounds in Game 5. He played with a left shoulder injury that caused his left arm to go numb, Davis told ESPN , but he was able to finish the game.
Davis said he will give James space about his decision and will reach out to the four-time NBA champion when the time is right.
“He’s been in this position numerous times in his career, where he had to make a decision ultimately for himself and his family,” Davis said of James, with whom he will team up at the Olympics. “I’ll be there supporting whatever he decides to do… I’m pretty sure he’s not even on his mind right now.” [tras la derrota]. But I’m pretty sure he’ll come talk to me, tell me what’s going on before the situation is made public, just to keep me informed.”
“Obviously, it’s been five great seasons with him,” Davis continued. “If he decides to come back, obviously our goal is to come back and be a championship contender, stay healthy and give the Laker Nation what they deserve.
“But he has to make a decision, and when that time comes, he will inform me and you.”
2024-04-30 13:17:00
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