Has LeBron James conceded that his Lakers have no shot to win the 2024-25 NBA title?
As he enters his 22nd season, tying Vince Carter for most in NBA history, James has admitted that his priorities have changed and winning a championship is no longer the be-all-end-all.
“What drives me is my love for the game,” James told Rolling Stone of his motivation to play at age 39. “I’ve been blessed to achieve a lot in my career, but there’s always room for growth, both on and off the court. I’m motivated by the opportunity to still make an impact, to lead, and to keep winning at the highest level. It’s not just about championships, it’s about inspiring the next generation and continuing to push myself. I still have a lot to give, and that’s what keeps me going.”
James’ comments are surprising since he has, metaphorically at least, moved heaven and earth to pursue a championship for over a decade. Ever since he made “The Decision” to join the Heat in 2011, James has stressed that every season that doesn’t end with him hoisting the Larry O’Brien trophy is a failure. A similar “go big or go home” mindset was shared by the likes of Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, who, too, were obsessed with winning championships.
As part of his pursuit of titles, James has been known to recruit players, assist scouts with the draft process and work closely with front office executives on roster construction. However, in recent years, the Ohio native has seemingly taken a backseat with the intent to just play the sport he loves.
While the Lakers enter the new season with longshot odds (+4000) to win the title, James, who turns 40 in December, has several milestones he could reach to further rewrite the history books, including reaching 50,000 points (playoffs combined) and becoming the all-time minutes leader.
James is also set to become the first to play in the NBA as both a teenager and 40-year-old and the first to share the court with his son, new Lakers guard Bronny James.
The Lakers begin their 2024-25 campaign against the Timberwolves on Oct. 23.