The Los Angeles Lakers suffered a disappointing loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, but it wasn’t just the team’s performance that sparked conversations. LeBron James, often the heart of the Lakers, delivered a subdued game, finishing with only 12 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists on 5-of-13 shooting.

His struggles from beyond the arc, missing all four of his three-point attempts, further fueled discussions about his longevity in the league.

Kendrick Perkins stokes retirement rumors

Former NBA player and outspoken analyst Kendrick Perkins added fuel to the fire, openly speculating on social media that LeBron might be playing his final season.

“It’s looking like this just might be Bron‘s last season,” Perkins posted.

Perkins’ comment resonated with many fans, who are increasingly attuned to the signs of decline from the once-unstoppable forward. For a player who has defied age and logic for so long, even a single off-game feels like a potential turning point.

Online, reactions to LeBron‘s performance ranged from humor to heartfelt reflection. Some fans began entertaining the idea of a farewell tour, urging the star to announce his retirement so the NBA community could properly celebrate his legacy.

Others compared his struggles to the rare lows of his Miami Heat days, underscoring just how uncommon such performances have been throughout his career.

“Father Time catching up after that long chase finally,” wrote one fan.

Another added: “Can’t even lie today one of the worst Bron has looked in years lol like I had no clue what he was doing, McQueen might be fading fr.”

a career too great to overshadow

Though speculation about retirement is intensifying, LeBron’s legacy remains untouchable. A four-time champion and a defining figure of the modern NBA, his impact on the game goes far beyond individual performances.

Whether this season signals the beginning of his farewell or another chapter in his storied career, the conversation around LeBron has undeniably shifted.