NBA Insider Shams Charania Reveals When Lakers' LeBron James Could Retire

The decision will depend on how the Lakers perform in the coming months.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 3:04pm

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NBA insider Shams Charania has provided insight into when Lakers superstar LeBron James might retire. Charania stated that James' future will largely depend on how the Lakers finish the season and whether they can contend for the championship. James, now 41 years old, is still playing at a high level but has seen his stats decline compared to previous seasons.

Why it matters

LeBron James is one of the greatest players in NBA history, so his eventual retirement will have a major impact on the league. The Lakers' performance this season could determine whether James plays for one more year or decides to call it a career.

The details

Despite his advanced age, James is still making highlight-reel plays, including a recent diving save against the Denver Nuggets. However, his stats have dropped, as he is averaging career lows in points, rebounds, and 3-point shooting percentage. Charania said James' future will depend on factors like the Lakers' playoff run, his health, and his mental and emotional state.

  • The Lakers currently sit third in the Western Conference standings.
  • The Lakers have won 8 straight games, beating contenders like the Denver Nuggets.

The players

LeBron James

A 41-year-old superstar forward for the Los Angeles Lakers who is still playing at a high level despite his advanced age.

Shams Charania

An NBA insider who has provided insight into LeBron James' potential retirement timeline.

Luka Doncic

A star player who James has played well alongside this season.

JJ Redick

A veteran player who James has played with on the Lakers.

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What they’re saying

“LeBron hasn't made a decision on whether he's going to continue to play. I think the feeling around LeBron James and the league is he'll go at least one more season. A lot of how the Lakers season finishes will play a big factor into LeBron James' future.”

— Shams Charania, NBA Insider (ESPN)

“How does their season end? How does his season end? How is his health? How is he feeling? Mentally, emotionally, and all that. But, did we see that dive?... To me this shows where he's at as a player. His acts of being really willing to do anything. It's self-awareness.”

— Shams Charania, NBA Insider (ESPN)

What’s next

The Lakers' performance in the playoffs will be a key factor in determining whether LeBron James decides to play one more season or retire.

The takeaway

LeBron James' future is still uncertain, but it will largely depend on how the Lakers finish the season and whether they can contend for a championship. At 41 years old, James is still playing at a high level, but his declining stats suggest he may be nearing the end of his illustrious career.