Lakers News: Why Former LA Guard Is Convinced LeBron James Won't Retire Just Yet

We can only hope he's right!

In an epic NBA Finals preview edition of his show The Pat Bev Podcast With Rone, former 2022-23 Los Angeles Lakers combo guard Patrick Beverley spoke about his former teammate LeBron James' surprise threat to possibly retire before his contract with LA is up.

James is signed through at least 2023-24, which would be his 21st NBA season, and has a $50.7 million player option for 2024-25 with LA, when he will turn 40.

“I don’t think he’s gonna retire,” Beverley weighed in about his old comrade. “He chasing some s--- too... “I just think that he loves ball... The motherf—– love basketball. He loves the preparation that comes with it, the work you have to put in it, the dog days that come with it, the vibes around it. He a real hooper.”

Beverley had a mediocre half-season with Los Angeles. Across 45 games (all starts) with the Lakers, the 6'1" vet averaged 6.4 points on .402/.348/.780 shooting splits, 3.1 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.6 blocks a night. He was flipped to the Orlando Magic by team president Rob Pelinka as part of a major trade deadline makeover, then negotiated a buyout with the club. Pat Bev inked a rest-of-year deal with his hometown Chicago Bulls, whom he led to a play-in appearance before the club ultimately fell to the Miami Heat. With the defeat, Beverley missed the playoffs for the first time in his 11-year NBA career.

The 34-year-old may no longer quite be his peak All-Defensive Team self, but could remain a useful player if on, say, a minimum contact. He will be an unrestricted free agent this summer.

Are you following us on Twitter, Facebook, or YouTube yet? Join the conversation as we discuss the latest Lakers news and rumors with fans like you!