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As the 2025 NBA season approaches, one question looms large in Los Angeles and across the basketball world: Is this LeBron James’ final season? Now entering his 22nd year in the league, the 40-year-old legend hasn’t officially announced his retirement plans—but all signs point to a farewell tour.
Inside the Lakers’ camp, preparations are already underway. From roster moves to championship aspirations, here’s a closer look at the Lakers’ 2025 game plan and what it could mean for LeBron’s final ride.
👑 The LeBron Legacy Watch
LeBron James continues to defy Father Time. Last season, he averaged 23.1 points, 7.9 assists, and 6.8 rebounds while playing over 65 games—unheard of at his age. While he’s stayed quiet on retirement, he’s hinted that “this could be it” if the Lakers make a deep playoff run or if he gets the chance to play with his son, Bronny James, who was selected in the 2025 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers.
🟡 Lakers’ Roster Moves: Win-Now Mode Activated
General Manager Rob Pelinka and Head Coach JJ Redick are all in. Here’s what the Lakers did this offseason to build a serious contender:
Signed DeMar DeRozan to a 2-year deal for veteran scoring and leadership
Acquired Myles Turner in a trade with the Pacers to add rim protection and floor spacing
Re-signed Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura to maintain continuity
Drafted 3-and-D wing Jordan Tucker with the 29th pick
The message is clear: This season is about one thing—winning now.
🎯 Game Plan: Surround LeBron with Shooters & Defenders
The 2025 Lakers plan to lean on a balanced system with Anthony Davis as the defensive anchor and LeBron running point-forward duties. Expect a heavy emphasis on transition offense and high-efficiency half-court sets with multiple shooters surrounding LeBron.
With Redick’s analytical approach and a refreshed roster, the Lakers aim to improve their 3-point shooting and defensive metrics—both of which hurt them in last year’s early playoff exit.
🔍 Bronny James Factor: A Final Twist?
Though Bronny James is starting his career with the Cavaliers, speculation remains that LeBron could engineer a late-season move or sign a one-day contract in Cleveland to share the court with his son. If that happens, it could be the emotional end fans have long hoped for.
🔚 Is This the End of an Era?
Whether 2025 is truly LeBron’s final season or not, the Lakers are operating like it is. Ticket sales are soaring, the schedule is packed with nationally televised games, and fans across the NBA are bracing for what could be the last dance of the greatest player of this generation.
Lakers’ 2025 Key Goals
Secure a Top-4 seed in the Western Conference
Keep LeBron healthy through managed minutes
Maximize AD’s two-way dominance
Deep playoff run or bust
