It seems like every year now, when the Lakers’ season ends, questions about LeBron James’ retirement come out of the grave. But averaging over 25 points even at the age of thirty-nine, he has somehow continued to defy Father Time, unlike most superstars who reach this stage of their career. However, LBJ continuously keeps saying his days in the NBA are numbered despite him still playing at a high level. Hall of Famer Charles Barkley warned him to take that decision sooner rather than later, reminding him of Michael Jordan and Patrick Ewing’s ‘not pretty’ fate.

During a recent appearance on a radio show, Barkley was asked about LeBron’s potential retirement, to which he replied, “I hope he retires while he can still play. I saw Michael Jordan [play] with the [Washington] Wizards and it was not pretty. I saw Patrick Ewing with the Orlando Magic. I would love to see [LeBron James] retire sooner rather than later…because it ends badly when you keep on playing.” Yes, on paper, MJ played all eighty-two games in his final season with the Wizards averaging 20 points, and even made the All-Star team. Nevertheless, he retired twice in between his career, which likely helped him play till the age of forty.

Moreover, he was no longer contending for a Championship like his days in Chicago. Meanwhile, Ewing had a rougher end to his career, averaging just six points in the Magic uniform and starting in only four of the 82 games. It was not easy for fans who witnessed Ewing dominate in the Knicks’ colors during his prime to then watch him struggle in Orlando.

LeBron also has had an aura of dominance in everyone’s perception for over two decades, and Charles Barkley believes he should hang his boots while people still have that ‘image’ of him.

What are LeBron James’ thoughts on his retirement?

While Charles Barkley wants LeBron James to retire before things get ugly, James’ agent and close friend Rich Paul believes he has a few more years left in him. Because after the Lakers got eliminated by the Nuggets, Paul said, “I think we do see him next year.” However, Paul wasn’t sure for how long LBJ would continue. Although, he claimed it could be at least two to three years before he decided to move on.

Meanwhile, LeBron understands that he might be very close to making the dreaded decision. He once said, “Not very long…I’m not going to play another 21 years, that’s for damn sure. But not very long. I don’t know what or when that door will close as far as when I retire, but I don’t have much time left.”

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Maybe, LeBron is waiting for one last Championship to end his career on a high note. Or for an opportunity to play alongside Bronny who could most likely get drafted this summer. Whatever the case may be, we should celebrate King James’ NBA presence even if he doesn’t win any rings anymore.

Simply because not everyone can put up elite numbers at 39, can they? LeBron James might announce a farewell tour, giving the fanbase a chance to witness his greatness one last time.