Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James. Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

LeBron James coy on future after Game 5 loss

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Larry Brown | Last updated 4/30/24

The Los Angeles Lakers’ season ended on Monday night with a 108-106 loss to the Denver Nuggets in Game 5 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series, which has resulted in plenty of tough questions about the team’s future. It already looks like Darvin Ham might not be back as the team’s head coach. But what about LeBron James? Will he be back?

James was asked in his news conference after the Game 5 loss whether this was his last game with the Lakers. He smiled and said, “I’m not going to answer that.”

Was there any thought that tonight was your last game with the Lakers?

LeBron James: “I’m not going to answer that.” pic.twitter.com/tOySUdsmbI

— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) April 30, 2024

James loves to keep his options open, so it’s no surprise he wouldn’t answer that question. He probably wants to maintain maximum leverage when it comes to negotiations with the Lakers.

James has a $51.4 million player option for next season. The Lakers reportedly want him back and are willing to give him a three-year max contract to keep him with the team.

James will likely seek a raise from the Lakers. You should expect to see him back in purple and gold next season, though.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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