LeBron James' Possible Final Game at MSG Draws Huge Ticket Prices

Knicks players Josh Hart and Mike Brown reflect on their connections to the NBA legend ahead of his potential farewell to the iconic arena.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 4:31pm

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As the Knicks host the Lakers on Sunday, there is speculation that this could be LeBron James' last game at Madison Square Garden. Tickets for the game have skyrocketed, with the average purchase price on secondary markets reaching $912. Two prominent Knicks, Josh Hart and Mike Brown, have personal connections to James - Hart played with him on the Lakers, while Brown coached him for five seasons with the Cavaliers. Both reflected on the experience of being part of LeBron's teams and the impact he has had on the NBA.

Why it matters

LeBron James has long dominated at Madison Square Garden, dubbing it his "favorite playground" and the "Mecca" of basketball. As he approaches free agency and potentially the end of his illustrious career, this game could mark his final appearance at the iconic arena, making it a historic moment for both Knicks fans and NBA fans alike.

The details

The Knicks, riding a five-game winning streak, will host the Lakers on Sunday in what could be LeBron James' last game at Madison Square Garden. James is set to be a free agent after the season and has not yet committed to playing another year or returning to the Lakers. The average purchase price on secondary markets for the game is $912, making it the most expensive NBA game since Kobe Bryant's final game in 2016. Two prominent Knicks, Josh Hart and Mike Brown, have personal connections to James - Hart played one season with him on the Lakers, while Brown coached him for five seasons with the Cavaliers. Both reflected on the experience of being part of LeBron's teams and the impact he has had on the NBA.

  • LeBron James is set to be a free agent after the 2022-23 season.
  • The Knicks host the Lakers on Sunday, February 2, 2026.

The players

LeBron James

A 41-year-old NBA superstar in his 23rd season, who has long dominated at Madison Square Garden and is considered one of the greatest players of all time.

Josh Hart

A Knicks player who played one season with LeBron James on the Lakers.

Mike Brown

A Knicks assistant coach who coached LeBron James for five seasons with the Cavaliers.

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What they’re saying

“Obviously, they should give him a good ovation.”

— Josh Hart, Knicks player (New York Post)

“He's gotta be, if he's not, the smartest guy that I've been around, in terms of feel and all that stuff. He's definitely top three. Unbelievable talent, unbelievable human being. He's done a lot for the community, he's done a lot for the NBA.”

— Mike Brown, Knicks assistant coach (New York Post)

What’s next

The Knicks and Lakers will face off on Sunday, February 2, 2026, in what could be LeBron James' final game at Madison Square Garden.

The takeaway

This game represents a potential historic moment as LeBron James, one of the greatest players of all time, may be making his final appearance at the iconic Madison Square Garden. The high ticket prices and reflections from Knicks players who have been connected to James underscore the significance of this potential farewell.