Following the Lakers‘ season-ending 113-111 loss to the Nuggets on Monday night in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals, LeBron James walked into the postgame media session to answer questions about their loss, playoff run and the entire season. His answer to the last question, however, is the most open to interpretation.
James was asked how he evaluates the season on a personal level, and his long and wide-ranging answer touched on many topics and emotions. He highlighted the turnaround the team was able to orchestrate, describing it as a “pretty cool ride” while ultimately stopping short of calling it a success because the team failed to advance to the NBA Finals. His final words, however, set an ambiguous tone about his immediate future.
“Let’s see what happens in the future. But I don’t know,” said James. “I don’t know. I have a lot to think about, to be honest. I have a lot to think about, honestly, just for me personally to continue playing basketball. A lot to think about.”
"Just for me personally continuing the game of basketball, I have a lot on my mind."
LeBron James in his future
(through @NBATV)pic.twitter.com/pu84XhAud3
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) May 23, 2023
James, 38, just completed his 20th year in the NBA and was limited to 55 games in the regular season due to various injuries. He recovered more quickly than expected from a late-season foot injury that seemed to affect his play at times during the playoffs, though he did play 48 minutes during Monday night’s game, leading all scorers with 40 points.
James is one of six Lakers under contract for next season, where he is set to earn a team-high $46.7 million. He also has a player option for next year for $50.4 million.
