LeBron James’ NBA future may be tied directly to his youngest son. According to an NBA executive who spoke with Lakers Daily, James is unlikely to retire after next season unless the Lakers win a championship, with whispers suggesting his real goal is to stay in the league long enough to play alongside Bryce James in 2026.
“I think LeBron plays one or two more seasons unless the Lakers win it all next year,” the NBA executive said. “Bryce James will be eligible for the 2026 draft. There are some whispers that LeBron wants to play with him, too.”
At 40 years old, LeBron has hinted at retirement several times already, but he’s just one season away from his youngest son, Bryce, entering the draft. The thought of him abandoning that opportunity just doesn’t sit well with some executives.
“We’ll see what happens, but I just can’t see LeBron retiring after next season,” the exec added. “He’s still too good a player to just walk away. Unless there’s a huge drop-off in his production or the Lakers win the championship, I think LeBron is playing in 2026-27.”
As a four-time MVP, four-time champion, and 21x All-Star, LeBron James has nothing left to prove in the NBA. Still, after averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game last season, he can still play at a high level, and there’s a chance he can add another title to his stacked resume.
While that’s enough to keep LeBron playing on its own, the lure to play with Bryce is likely what’s keeping James going. Last season, we saw LeBron make history with Bronny as the first father-son duo in NBA history, but he can end up playing with both of his sons if he just sticks around long enough. Fortunately, he won’t have to wait long.
At 18 years old, Bryce will be eligible for the 2026 Draft, meaning he could be ready to play as soon as the 2026-27 season. After four years at Sierra Canyon High School, Bryce committed to Arizona, where he is expected to play a big role for the Wildcats. His performance there will dictate his draft stock, but the Lakers are expected to consider him if he’s available at the appropriate pick.
As a big wing with a high skill level and a quickly improving game, Bryce is an interesting prospect and a skilled outside shooter with a soft touch and flawless form. He has a natural IQ for the game and is an ideal teammate for any locker room.
While it remains to be seen how his game will translate into the pros, the Lakers have shown a willingness to trust in the James family before, and it would be a historic moment to bring the father and sons trio together on the same team.
LeBron James has already defied every expectation placed on him since entering the league in 2003, and now he could be chasing one last unprecedented milestone: playing with both of his sons on the NBA stage. If Bryce James continues his upward trajectory and LeBron can maintain his level for just a little longer, the dream of a father-and-two-sons trio could become reality and cement LeBron’s legacy in a way no championship ever could.
