LeBron James sparks retirement speculation after subdued performance against OKC Thunder

LeBron James' team Los Angeles Lakers suffered a disappointing 106-98 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder
UPDATED DEC 1, 2024
Los Angeles Lakers' LeBron James disappointed fans with his performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder (Getty Images)
Los Angeles Lakers' LeBron James disappointed fans with his performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder (Getty Images)

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA: The Los Angeles Lakers suffered a disappointing 106-98 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, but the spotlight was not solely on the team's struggles.

LeBron James, the centerpiece of the Lakers and a player synonymous with greatness, delivered an uncharacteristically muted performance.

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on April 09, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on April 9, 2024, in Los Angeles, California (Getty Images)

NBA analyst Kendrick Perkins fuels LeBron James' retirement rumors

Finishing with just 12 points, eight rebounds, and two assists on 5-of-13 shooting, LeBron James missed all four of his three-point attempts, reported Marca.

The game marked one of his rare off-nights and reignited conversations about his longevity as he plays in his 21st NBA season.

Adding to the speculation, former NBA player and current analyst Kendrick Perkins took to social media to suggest that this season could be James' last.

"It's looking like this just might be Bron's last season," Perkins posted, sparking widespread discussion among fans and analysts.



 

For a player who has defied age and expectations throughout his career, even a single off-game could feel like a significant moment.

LeBron James' legacy beyond basketball court

A four-time NBA champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist, and the league's all-time leading scorer, LeBron James has set records that will stand for generations.

Beyond his achievements on the court, James has been an influential figure in the game and its broader culture.

From his philanthropic endeavors to his role as a global ambassador for basketball, his legacy is secure regardless of how his career ends.


LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 21: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on November 21, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on November 21, 2024, in Los Angeles, California (Getty Images)

Internet disappointed with LeBron James' performance

After LeBron James delivered an underwhelming performance, netizens expressed their disappointment with "King James".

One user on X wrote, "It's hard to argue against that. Watching him play this season, you can see the signs. His legacy is incredible, but it's definitely feeling like a farewell tour. Let's savor every moment!"



 

"Probably next year imo. I think he can still score but all of his numbers are showing a decline from previous years. There is a good chance that this year and next year are treated as farewell tours for him," an individual penned.



 

"I think he can do one more season, he has the energy for it," a netizen opined, and another remarked, "Nah he will make sure he gets the full farewell treatment. Next season."



 



 

"He did his work time to hang em up he’ll go down as the goat but it’s time," a user commented, while someone wrote, "If the announcement comes out i wouldn’t be surprised."



 



 

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.

MORE STORIES

The post Khloe Kardashian liked featured Charlie Kirk speaking with a fan at an event about his devout Christian faith
Sep 13, 2025
Whitney Cummings sparked widespread outrage after posting a controversial tweet about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk
Sep 13, 2025
Prince Harry was spotted entering King Charles’s London residence, months after saying his father had ignored his calls
Sep 11, 2025
Rosie O'Donnell said Ellen DeGeneres’ friendship denial hurt so much she printed T-shirts for her staff reading, 'I don’t know Rosie, we’re not friends'
Sep 10, 2025
A post alleged that Karoline Leavitt called Patti LaBelle 'just a singer,' leading LaBelle to deliver a seven-word response that froze the studio
Sep 10, 2025
Jennifer Lopez feels free channeling emotions into music, but Ben Affleck is embarrassed and sees it as crossing a line, according to the source
Sep 9, 2025
Howard Stern added that he missed last week’s show due to illness, not contract talks, and addressed rumors of being fired from his own show
Sep 9, 2025
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement in August 2025 triggered a wave of pregnancy chatter after an ultrasound photo went viral
Sep 9, 2025
Ed Sheeran, 34, revealed that he was leaving Suffolk with his wife Cherry Seaborn and their two daughters, Lyra and Jupiter
Sep 9, 2025
From Ice Spice’s chaotic corset to Paris Hilton’s flame dress, see the celebs who landed on the worst-dressed list at the 2025 VMAs
Sep 8, 2025