As LeBron James embarks on his 23rd season in the NBA, questions about how much longer the Los Angeles Lakers legend can – or wants to – keep playing have never been louder.

Now, a former teammate has thrown fuel on the speculation fire. During a recent segment, Danny Green confidently asserted that this season will be “the last ride” for James. The bold prediction has reignited debate throughout basketball circles and around the Lakers locker room.

Green, who shared championship locker rooms with James both in Cleveland and Los Angeles, said bluntly: “I just don’t see him making it to year 24.”

His remarks came amid whispers throughout the league that the wear and tear of 23 seasons – now at age 40 – may already be catching up to the four-time champion.

LeBron himself has been rather candid lately. At the Lakers‘ media day ahead of the 2025-26 season, he remarked that his career end is “a lot sooner than later,” even as he reaffirmed his love for the game and appreciation for another season with the purple and gold.

What could make this actually be it

The signs are piling up. LeBron has already dealt with recurring sciatica issues and a sprained knee ligament during the 2025 playoffs – injuries that prompted him to opt into this season but raised serious questions about longevity.

Reports suggest that he, his wife Savannah, and his daughter Zhuri are set to have the final say.

Beyond the physical toll, the landscape has shifted. The arrival of superstar Luka Doncic has signaled a new era for the Lakers – one where LeBron’s role may inevitably shrink. It’s no secret that the franchise is already preparing for life beyond King James.

The Lakers icon’s legacy is secure: all-time leading scorer, 4 NBA champion, 20-time All-Star. But many now believe his swan song may come as early as the end of this season. The question isn’t just when LeBron will retire – it’s how the NBA will shift once he does.