ESPN analyst reveals LeBron James' future plans after this season, makes Michael Jordan comparison originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for the playoffs. Before injuries to Luka Doncic and LeBron James, they looked like serious contenders to reach the NBA Finals. James has made it clear he wants to finish his career on a contending team.

“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Rich Paul told ESPN. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.”

With the playoffs approaching, the veteran James is excited for what’s ahead.

“It’s going to be litty. It’s going to be crazy. I’m looking forward to it. I mean me personally like I don’t know how many more postseasons I got left in my career. And we talked about this a while ago, like getting ready for the postseason, like that moment, like it doesn’t matter what you did in the regular season. That sh*t is out the window now. Like it. Doesn’t matter. Like it starts again. This is it. So, I’m excited, man. I can’t wait,” James said.

There are still question marks surrounding his future after this playoff run. However, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith believes he will return for at least one more season.

“I think he will be back next year. He should be back next year because the brother deserves his farewell tour. LeBron James should be celebrated city to city. I think his farewell tour should be comparable to that of MJ. He’s done that much for the league,” Smith said.

James is undoubtedly one of the greatest players in professional basketball history. Based on how he has performed this season, it does not feel like the end of his career is near.

The Lakers still have not had a full opportunity to show what they are capable of due to injuries and other factors. Another year in Los Angeles would give James a legitimate chance to potentially go out with a championship.

More NBA news:

1. Lakers' LeBron James makes playoff mentality very clear amid Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves absence

2. Lakers $16M veteran reportedly looking to save his future amid Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves absence

3. Lakers reportedly set to part ways with $4.2M former first-rounder after lackluster season

4. Lakers insider says all signs point toward $101M superstar re-signing to play with Luka Doncic

5. Lakers predicted to sign $82.5M defensive menace, Finals Champion to build alongside Luka Doncic

6. Lakers' $16M veteran could be saving grace amid faltering season without Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves

7. Lakers reportedly relying on $51M inconsistent starter for playoff success alongside LeBron James

8. Lakers predicted to part ways with $18M former first-rounder after underwhelming season