Where should LeBron finish his career?
(Mark J. Terrill / Associated Press)
LeBron James will now enter his 20th season – and he isn’t getting any younger. Consequently, the future Hall-of-Famer will soon have to decide where to end his career. In fact, on Thursday, James and his agent, Rich Paul, met with Lakers management to discuss exactly that. So, where should James end his career?
The obvious answer is the Lakers, which is a no-brainer, in my opinion.
First, this is a common ending point for many legends, including Steve Nash, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, and Magic Johnson. Two, and probably the most practical reason, James has an established foundation in LA. More specifically, James has his $725 million media company, the SpringHill Co, to manage and develop. He is also preparing to go into another big business with the former governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger. That is why it makes no sense for him to leave LA, in my opinion. James, the first current-athlete billionaire, is setting up his life beyond basketball, and Hollywood is simply the best place to do that.
In addition, it is important to note that James has settled his family in LA. Two of his kids will be in school over his last few years in the NBA. Moving into a new city, with its challenges and tribulations, would be hard for them and James – especially if it’s a place his wife doesn’t like.
Yet, the Lakers know this. That is why I believe they have somewhat of leverage over James. In the words of Jalen Rose, “They know he ain’t leaving now.” This argument explains why there are conversations about an extension in the first place because – usually – if an NBA team and player want to get a contract done, they do it before the eligibility date. However, the biggest deciding factor will not be LeBron or the Lakers.
Instead, it will be Bronny James.
LeBron has repeatedly said he wants to end or continue his career with his son. Consequently, the team that drafts him will ultimately decide LeBron’s last dance. So, despite their leverage, the Lakers will not be able to obtain Bronny James in the NBA draft. Well, unless Bronny decides not to partake in the draft, of course.
The final – and most realistic option – for LeBron at this point of his career would be for Bronny to become an undrafted free agent and easily sign with the Lakers. Lakers NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal’s son also went as an undrafted free agent and joined his father’s former team.
Although Bronny would have to sacrifice some of his reputation for not being drafted on an NBA team, he and his Dad would make history as the first father-son duo to play for the same team while helping the Lakers win their 18th championship.
