Los Angeles Lakers star forward LeBron James saw his team eliminated from the NBA Playoffs by the Denver Nuggets for a second consecutive season Monday evening.
The Lakers had no real chance to compete against the defending NBA champions, losing the best-of-seven series in five games.
Following Monday night’s loss, King James told reporters that he is not yet decided on his future. The four-time NBA champion will likely opt out of his contract and hit free agency this summer. Whether that means he’s flirting with the possibility of leaving the Lakers after six seasons remains to be seen.
James, 39, took to X (previously Twitter) Tuesday night to provide some type of clarification as rumors about his future continue to ramp up.
“I’ve seen, heard a lot of reports about my future. I said it last night and I’ll say it again. I do not know yet as I’m only thinking about spending time with my family & friends! When I know after speaking with the fam, my counsel as my representation about it then you guys will know. Until then. Love.”
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James on his future
LeBron James undecided on his future with the Los Angeles Lakers
Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
By refusing to immediately commit to the Lakers for next season, James is only adding to the rumors about his future.
All of this comes amid a report that Los Angeles is going to fire embattled head coach Darvin Ham after two seasons. There was certainly a disconnect between Ham and the James-led Lakers roster.
Everything appears to be up in the air as it relates to James and the Lakers. That’s magnified by yet another early playoff exit.
As for James, he continues to play well from a micro perspective. The future Hall of Famer averaged 27.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, 8.8 assists and 2.4 steals per game in the Nuggets series.
If James opts to leave the Lakers, there is not going to be a limited amount of contending teams interested in his services.