Is LeBron James finally ready to retire? His wife certainly hopes so.
Speculation about LeBron James’s retirement reignited after the Los Angeles Lakers were knocked out of the 2025 NBA Playoffs in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves. It marked the second straight year the Lakers suffered an early postseason exit, leading many to question whether James’s legendary career is nearing its end.
Although LeBron silenced the rumors—at least temporarily—by opting into the final year of his contract, his wife, Savannah James, appears to be urging him to hang it up soon.
Savannah James wants LeBron to step away “within the next year”
During a recently surfaced audio clip from a dinner conversation involving James, Cavaliers forward Kevin Love, and others, LeBron can be heard saying, “Savannah wants me to f—king retire in the next year or so.”
LeBron will turn 41 this December—making him more than twice as old as 2025’s No. 1 overall pick, Cooper Flagg, who turns 19 just days before James’s birthday. Despite his age, LeBron continues to put up impressive numbers, averaging 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds last season.
His strong performance may be part of the reason he chose to return for another year with the Lakers—and the $52.6 million salary he’s set to earn likely didn’t hurt either.
Still chasing a title
According to LeBron’s longtime agent Rich Paul, James is still focused on winning another championship. “He wants to compete. He knows the Lakers are preparing for the future, but he still values the chance to win now,” Paul told ESPN, adding that the team remains an essential part of LeBron’s storied career.
Next season will be James’s 23rd in the league—matching Michael Jordan’s iconic number—and he’s just 50 games away from surpassing Robert Parish for most regular-season games played. He’s also on the verge of breaking Vince Carter’s record for most seasons played if he suits up in 2026–27.
Where will LeBron finish hyis career?
Though he has a no-trade clause this season, James becomes an unrestricted free agent afterward. That opens the door for a possible farewell season elsewhere—perhaps even a return to Cleveland, where the Cavaliers had a stronger playoff run than the Lakers last year.
“We’re looking at what’s best for LeBron at this stage,” Paul explained. “He wants every season he plays now to truly matter. The Lakers support that and want what’s best for himself
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