While Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James knows the end of his legendary NBA career is drawing nearer, he's thankful he isn't feeling any outside pressure to retire.

After 22 years in the NBA, Lakers star LeBron James is taking it one season at a time. Following a knee injury in the 2025 playoffs, where the Lakers lost in the first round, James is working his way back to full strength and is confident that he can play up to his usual standards for the 2025-26 campaign.

Los Angeles was bounced in five games by a younger, quicker, and more determined Timberwolves squad — and to make matters worse, James suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee that required surgery.