"That is him facing his mortality" - Brian Windhorst respects LeBron James' comments on retiring despite Bronny factor
Brian Windorst had an interesting opinion about LeBron James' comments on retiring after the Denver Nuggets swept the LA Lakers in the conference finals. After the Game 4 loss on Monday, James made cryptic remarks about his future, which pointed toward his possible retirement. Here's what he said:
"Personally, going forward with the game of basketball, I’ve got a lot to think about."
Shortly after, Bleacher Report's Chris Haynes reported that James is contemplating retirement this offseason. ESPN's Dave McMenamin then revealed a conversation with the Lakers forward that confirmed Haynes' report.
As James walked out of the arena following his post-game press conference, McMenamin asked the 38-year-old about his end-of-media session comments and the takeaway for everyone from those remarks. LeBron responded that it was related to continuing to play next year and considering walking away from the game.
LeBron James told @mcten that he will consider retirement this offseason. https://t.co/X7mlBz1mfr
Brian Windhorst broke down multiple aspects of LeBron James hinting at retirement, which also consists of his wish to play with his son, Bronny James, who will be in the league by the 2024-25 season.
However, Windhorst didn't rule out that LeBron James may have been exhausted at this stage, something he probably realized in the second half of the Lakers' Game 4 loss. Here's what the ESPN reporter said on the "Get Up" show:
"I do think he [LeBron] really really really wants to play with Bronny. So I think that's gonna trump everything... But I also think he's exhausted and tired. He played one of his great halves of his playoffs career... And completey ran out of gas at the end of the game. That is him facing his mortality."
Listen to Windhorst's comments from the 19:31 mark*
LeBron seemed determined to help the Lakers avoid a series sweep loss. He came out swinging and dropped 31 points, four rebounds, four assists and two steals in the first half, shooting 84.6%. The Lakers were up 15 entering the break.
However, James flamed out in the final 24 minutes. He only added nine points on 4-of-12 shooting and got stripped off the ball on the final possession to send the game into overtime.
James looked old in these playoffs. It took him 16 games to drop his first 40-point effort, which is unlike him. However, he also dealt with a torn tendon in his right foot, which may need surgery in the offseason.
LeBron James with a historic Game 4 👏
40 PTS (15-25 FG)
10 REB
9 AST
He becomes the oldest player in NBA history to record 40 PTS in a Playoff game. https://t.co/s1qaAyGmcF
LeBron James still has a shot at championship success
Aside from his interest in playing with Bronny, another reason LeBron James might end up playing his 21st season in the league next year is for another chance at a championship win. Despite playing on an injured foot, he was able to play an instrumental role in helping the Lakers make the conference finals.
He finished his 20th year averaging a team-high 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds and 6.8 assists, earning a third-team All-NBA selection. James also averaged a team-high 24.5 points per contest on 49.5% shooting in the playoffs.
He didn't necessarily have to play aggressively every game due to the support he had this time around. Anthony Davis had an uneven playoff run, but he was the Lakers' primary option. Meanwhile, Austin Reaves emerged as a reliable threat along with Rui Hachimura.
The Lakers were arguably the best defensive team. It was probably one of the best rosters James has been surrounded with in his 20 years. The Lakers could have a shot at adding a piece like Kyrie Irving or another big-name free agent without breaking up their entire core.
These factors could also linger on LeBron James' mind as he contemplates returning next season as the Lakers could be a legitimate threat.