Regardless of when James decides to retire, he'll go down as one of the "GOAT's" in NBA history. The debate of James vs. Michael Jordan isn't the focus right now, but it's one that will continue for many years to come.

One NBA analyst predicts that James will return to the Lakers next season. Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report predicted that James will decline his 2025-26 player option and sign a new contract with Los Angeles.

James, 40, has a $52.6 million player option for next season that he must opt into by June 29 or become a free agent, and his decision looms over the organization.