LeBron James has made a surprising claim about his NBA future, saying he’s got “5-7 more years” left at the top of his game. But wait—his teammate has a different take on how long LeBron can keep playing! What bold prediction did his teammate make that has everyone talking? Get the full, jaw-dropping details of their conversation and what it means for LeBron’s future below! 👇👇

LeBron James Claims He Has 5–7 More Years Left — Lakers Teammate Thinks He Could Play Until 50

LeBron James has recently ignited fresh speculation about his NBA future, with both the superstar himself and his rising Lakers teammate Dalton Knecht offering bold comments about the length of his career. Just days after a cryptic video stirred talk of a possible farewell tour, the 40-year-old James added fuel to the fire with a confident prediction about his playing years, suggesting that he has “five or seven more years left at the highest level.” Knecht, the 24-year-old shooting guard, also weighed in, expressing his belief that LeBron could continue playing for much longer, even going as far as saying, “LeBron James said he can play another five or 10 years. So Bron and I could stick with the team for another five or 10 years. Why not?”

 

On his 40th, LeBron James says he could play “another 5 or 7 years.” He won't stay around that long – WKRG News 5

LeBron James’ Bold Outlook on His Future

LeBron’s optimistic outlook on his career isn’t new. Back in January 2025, the four-time NBA champion told reporters that he felt he had “five or seven more years left at the highest level.” This comment quickly gained attention, especially following the release of a recent social media video that hinted at the possibility of a farewell tour during his 23rd season. Many speculated that this could be his final year, matching his iconic jersey number. However, LeBron’s continued elite production on the court suggests that he is far from ready to step away.

 

Still Dominating at 40

LeBron James’ performance at 40 years old continues to defy expectations. His 2024–25 regular-season stats were among the best for any player his age, and his postseason numbers further solidified his status as one of the game’s greatest players:

Regular Season: 24.4 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 8.2 APG
Playoffs: 25.4 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 5.6 APG, 1.8 BPG

These impressive numbers earned him Second Team All-NBA honors, and he continued to extend his league records in scoring milestones and All-NBA selections. Despite his age, LeBron shows no signs of slowing down, further fueling the belief that he could extend his career for several more years, as long as he remains physically capable.

 

Lakers' LeBron James says he could – but won't – play at a high level for 'another 5-7 years' – Orange County Register

Retirement or Reinvention?

As LeBron enters the final year of his contract with the Lakers, the NBA is faced with two possible scenarios for the 41-year-old superstar. One narrative envisions a grand farewell tour, filled with tributes and heartfelt goodbyes. The other suggests a multi-year run toward his fifth NBA championship, with LeBron continuing to lead the Lakers as they build a roster around him for another championship push.

While the Lakers’ early playoff exit this season—despite the addition of Luka Dončić—may influence LeBron’s decision about his future, offseason roster upgrades could play a pivotal role in whether he chooses to pursue another title run. Additionally, LeBron’s future may be shaped by any decisions regarding his son Bronny James, who is set to enter the NBA in the near future. The prospect of playing alongside his son could further extend LeBron’s career.

 

Could LeBron James Really Play Until He’s 50?

Although the idea of LeBron playing until he’s 50 may sound far-fetched, it’s not entirely out of the question. The legendary forward has already played more seasons than any player in NBA history, and his ability to defy the normal aging process has kept fans and analysts in awe. With players like Tom Brady managing to extend their careers well into their 40s in the NFL, LeBron’s chance of playing into his mid-40s, or even 50, doesn’t seem as implausible as it once did.

Lakers' LeBron James: I Could Play Another 5-7 Years at a High Level If I Wanted

LeBron’s unique combination of physical fitness, basketball IQ, and adaptability to changing styles of play may allow him to continue performing at an elite level for several more years. Knecht’s belief that LeBron could play for another 10 years may not be entirely unrealistic, especially given the advances in sports science and training that have helped athletes extend their careers.

 

LeBron’s Legacy: How Long Will He Stay?

For now, the only certainty about LeBron James’ future is that he isn’t finished yet. His career is far from over, and as long as his body continues to allow it, he could be a dominant force in the league for several more seasons. Whether he decides to go on a farewell tour or continue chasing another championship, one thing is clear—LeBron will have a significant impact on the NBA for the foreseeable future.

The question of how long LeBron will stay in the league remains open, but for now, fans can only wait and see how he continues to rewrite the record books. Will he retire after another couple of years, or will he surprise everyone and play well into his 40s? As the league continues to evolve, so too will the story of LeBron James—one of the greatest players in NBA history, and possibly one of the longest careers in professional sports.