Dillon Brooks shared his perspective on LeBron James’ future in a conversation reported by Kelly Iko of Yahoo Sports on Tuesday, May 12, as speculation around the veteran’s next move continues following the Lakers’ early playoff exit.
Brooks was straightforward in his assessment, dismissing the idea that this postseason might signal the end of James’ career. “I don’t think it’s his last year,” the Suns forward, who was present at the game, told Yahoo Sports. “I think he got one more in him. I watched him when I was in the NBA, when I was a kid in high school. He’s had a phenomenal career, battled everybody and performed at a high level throughout. It’s been amazing to watch overall, a pleasure to battle against him.”
The comments came shortly after the Oklahoma City Thunder eliminated the Lakers with a 115-110 win in Game 4, completing a four-game sweep in the Western Conference semifinals. Oklahoma City remained undefeated in the postseason and advanced to the conference finals, while Los Angeles exited after a series marked by late-game drama.
James finished the final game of his 23rd NBA season with 24 points and 14 rebounds. He played 38.4 minutes in Game 4 and nearly extended the contest in the closing seconds, missing a driving attempt that would have given the Lakers the lead. Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura helped keep Los Angeles competitive in the fourth quarter, but Oklahoma City sealed the series with timely execution, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren’s go-ahead basket inside the final minute.
Brooks’ remarks highlight the ongoing attention surrounding James at age 41, as he continues to produce at a high level while pushing deep into the playoffs. The Lakers star finished the regular season averaging 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists over 60 games. His future has become a recurring topic as Los Angeles reshapes its roster around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, with the franchise also evaluating roster flexibility this offseason.
The Lakers have now reached the Western Conference semifinals for the third straight year without advancing further, adding uncertainty about the team’s direction. Brooks’ belief that James still has another season aligns with the general expectation that the veteran forward remains capable of competing at an elite level.
