James responded on social media on Tuesday to the speculations regarding his future.
It would be Year 22 for the former 2003 No. 1 overall choice if James decides to come back. If he chooses to exercise it, he has a $51 million player option through Spotrac for 2024–2025.
James was asked if it was his final game as a Laker after losing in Game 5.
LeBron James on Lakers future
He said, “I’ve seen, heard a lot of reports about my future. I said it last night and I’ll say it again.
“I do not know yet as I’m only thinking about spending time with my family & friends!
“When I know after speaking with the fam, my counsel as well as my representation about it then you guys will know. Until then 🤫. Love 👑
He may choose to test free agency or opt out and sign a new contract with the Lakers, as he has in the past.
James may choose to pursue the latter of those two choices, as the deadline for opting in is June 29.
If such is the case, James’s availability in free agency would be limited to the year 2018—the year he moved from Cleveland to Southern California.
James participated in 71 games in Year 21 and averaged 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, 7.3 rebounds, 1.3 steals, and 0.5 blocks on a 54/41/75 shooting split, proving that age did not slow him down.