Brian Windhorst drops bold claim that LeBron James could walk away from NBA for another basketball league

Brian Windhorst recently ignited conversations about LeBron James' future on an episode of the Hoop Collective podcast. During the chat, Windhorst mentioned that LeBron James has been associated with the idea of possibly playing in other basketball leagues outside of the NBA. This remark surfaced during wider discussions regarding James' contract and performance, leading to speculation about whether the Lakers star might explore other options if he decides to leave the league.

Brian Windhorst says LeBron James still ranks among the top 10 to 15 players in the NBA today

During the conversation, Windhorst focused on LeBron James' play style and mental approach. He remarked, "He played the last two seasons he's played 71 in 70 games. Um, he this last year averaged 24 points, eight rebounds, eight assists, shot 51% overall from the field. His three-point percentage was 37% 38% if you round up, which was down from the year before."Windhorst pointed out that James' performance doesn't indicate he's about to retire, stating, "What I can tell you is his play on the court is not indicating somebody who's near retirement now.

No, he's still one of the 10 or 15 best players in the league. Easy."https://x.com/TheDunkCentral/status/1967978128371814803Still, he threw out a bold assertion regarding other leagues when he was addressing co-host Tim McMahon's observation about anticipating a decline in James' output. Windhorst stated, "I keep saying I keep hearing people like this might be the last year. This might be the last year. Look, he's been linked to potentially playing in other leagues. I don't know.

Maybe. But if he stays healthy, I do not see LeBron James slowing down.

"

LeBron James’ age and physical toll spark questions about his career path

Windhorst's remarks seem to be based on the current buzz and the changing phase of James' career. He noted that there's been a lot of talk suggesting that "This could be James' final year" in the NBA, influenced by his age, the physical toll, and his uncertain contract situation.The mention of other leagues was brought up as a potential scenario during these talks, with Windhorst adding, "I don't know.

Maybe," which shows it's more about the rumors he's picked up rather than any solid plans.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPrRe4Bnu5U&t=953sThis fits perfectly with Windhorst's position as someone who frequently shares insights on James' career, having followed him closely since the beginning. The remark was made after defining the steadfastness and elite position of James as a decision made by Windhorst to balance his optimistic projection of the duration James will serve in the NBA with the presence of external publicity.

LeBron James’ future questioned as player option leaves him with no long term security in Los Angeles Lakers

Windhorst shared some in-depth insights into why James' future is up in the air. He pointed out that James can't get a contract extension and has a no-trade clause, which sets him up for unrestricted free agency after the 2025-26 season. This is a first for James, as he's always had some level of security beyond the current year.Windhorst also mentioned comments from Rich Paul, James' agent. Paul told Shams Charania that James is feeling uncertain about his future after opting in for his player option.

Moreover, Paul personally told Windhorst that the Lakers haven't had any serious discussions about a new deal, saying, "They didn't have material conversations with the Lakers about a new contract."Also Read: Mario Chalmers claims Kevin Durant avoided Miami Heat to dodge the pressure of following LeBron James’ legacyThere’s a lot of instability in the Lakers' roster, with many players such as Rui Hachimura, Austin Reaves, Gabe Vincent, and others entering contract years or having options. Windhorst mentioned that only four players, Luka Doncic, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jake LaRavia, and Armel Traore, are locked in with guaranteed deals for next season, which just adds to the uncertainty about James.