James undecided on future after Lakers bow out of NBA playoffs

TL;DR

LeBron James is uncertain about his future after the Lakers were swept by Oklahoma City in the NBA playoffs. He will take time to consider whether to extend his contract, retire, or play elsewhere.

Key points

LeBron James scored 24 points and 12 rebounds in the final game.
The Lakers lost 115-110 to Oklahoma City.
James is now a free agent after the playoff exit.
He expressed uncertainty about his future plans.

Mentioned in this story

LeBron James

Los Angeles LakersOklahoma City ThunderNBA playoffs

LeBron James dribbles against Oklahoma City's Alex Caruso as the Lakers bowed out of the NBA playoffs (Luke Hales) (Luke Hales/GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA/Getty Images via AFP) LeBron James said he will take time to consider his future after the Los Angeles Lakers were swept out of the NBA playoffs by Oklahoma City on Monday in what could turn out to be the final game of his career. James, 41, delivered a typically defiant performance with 24 points and 12 rebounds but it was not enough to prevent the Lakers from falling 115-110 as the Thunder completed a 4-0 sweep in the Western Conference semi-finals series. The four-time NBA champion is now out of contract with the Lakers and will head into the off season as a free agent with uncertainty swirling around his future. Some reports have indicated James is ready to extend with the Lakers for what would be a 24th season in the NBA, while others have suggested that he may consider heading elsewhere or finally decide to retire from the sport. James gave little away Monday when quizzed about his plans following a loss in Los Angeles in front of a galaxy of courtside Hollywood stars including Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn and Eddie Murphy. "I don't know what the future holds for me," James said. "Obviously as it stands right now, tonight, I've got a lot of time. I'll go back and recalibrate with my family and talk with them, and spend some time with them, and then when the time comes, obviously you guys will know what I decide to do." James said whether he continues could hinge on whether he felt committed to the grind of playing at the highest level. "I think for me, it's about the process -- you know, if I can commit to still being in love with the process of showing up to the arena five-and-a-half hours before a game to start preparing." Whatever James decides, the veteran superstar feels that he has nothing left to prove after a career that has included a plethora of milestones and records that may never be broken. "There's nothing I need to show in this league," James said. "I've done it all, I've seen it all. So you know, just trying to compete and trying to win championships, I think that's a motivating factor." While James contemplates his future, the reigning NBA champions Oklahoma City are looking ahead to a Western Conference finals showdown with either the or for a place in the NBA finals. The Spurs and Timberwolves are tied at 2-2 in their best-of-seven semi-final series. The Thunder will fancy their chances of advancing after wrapping up an impressive sweep of the Lakers, having also already swept Phoenix in the first round. led the Thunder scorers with 35 points.

Q&A

What did LeBron James say about his future after the Lakers' playoff exit?

LeBron James stated he doesn't know what the future holds and will discuss his options with his family before making a decision.

Is LeBron James a free agent after the Lakers' playoff loss?

Yes, LeBron James is now a free agent as he is out of contract with the Lakers following their playoff exit.

What are the possible options for LeBron James this offseason?

LeBron James may consider extending his contract with the Lakers, playing for another team, or retiring from basketball.

How did the Lakers perform in the playoffs against Oklahoma City?

The Lakers were swept 4-0 by Oklahoma City in the Western Conference semi-finals.

James undecided on future after Lakers bow out of NBA playoffs

TL;DR

Key points

Q&A

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