KEY POINTS

  • LeBron James is still playing at a high level but is aware that his playing days are numbered
  • James says he will continue to play as long as he is in tip-top condition
  • The Lakers need to get help from other stars and not overly rely on James

LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers knows that as he hits 37-years-old, retirement is the one thing most expect him to address.

The four-time NBA champion touched on the subject after their 132-123 win over the Houston Rockets recently.

In that game, James had a monster outing after finishing with 32 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists.

His performance clearly shows that the Lakers superstar remains at a top level, and his current averages show no signs of “The King” slowing down.

“I know I’m on the other side of the hill, compared to the hill I was on before. I know that,” James stated. “But, I mean, I’ve thought about it, where I’m at with it. I’m still playing at such a high level, I haven’t given it too much thought.”

James has had 19 NBA seasons and is fully aware that his playing days are numbered.

“I’m in Year 19 and I’m not gonna do another 19 so I’m definitely not halfway in my career. I’m on the other side of the hill. So, we’ll see where the game takes me. We’ll see where my body takes me and my mind. As long as my mind stays fresh and my body stays with that, I can play the game,” James explained.

It is no secret that James spends millions keeping himself in shape.

But despite that initiative, most have noticed how James has been getting injured often lately and that it takes time for him to recover.

Such is the reason why the Lakers have been experiencing an erratic run.

However, the fact remains that the franchise cannot entirely rely on James to carry the team on his broad shoulders–especially for a squad that has other certified superstars in Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook.

LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakers Getty Images | Jayne Kamin-Oncea