Did LeBron James just hint at retirement? It’s the question that’s been on every NBA fan’s mind. After 22 seasons in the league and with every accomplishment possible, is he satisfied to hang those infamous sneakers? “I don’t know,” is how he answered that doubt after the Lakers’ postseason exit. But has he made a decision just yet? There’s some clarity on that front with his latest Twitter post.

Let’s not beat around the bush a lot. The post was an ad campaign that began with the Akron Hammer in familiar territory. Swamped by cameras and eager reporters waiting to ask the question. And then they did. “Are the retirement rumors true? What’s next?,”. Just as he was about to answer, the video ended.

It was enough to get people’s hearts racing. However, as far as what’s next or even the rumors, James still doesn’t have his mind made up. “I’ve been asking myself the same question…,” he left it at that in his post on X. And there’s enough substance to think we might be heading into the final year of the King’s enchanting career.

The Los Angeles Lakers sure are awaiting a decision. James has two options. He can either opt in to the final year of his contract, a signal that this could be his last season. Or he has an option to reject the final season to sign for another two seasons. Either direction he goes, his fans are just hopeful that they don’t hear dreadful news about his retirement for another year.

However, this post and the timing of it did it’s part in awakening those feelings. A lot of them were almost crushed when they heard what’s next. And while it was relieving, their requests to LeBron James still didn’t stop.

The fans went through every emotion

Having played in the NBA for more than half of his life, millions are used to having LeBron James as part of the league. But at the age of 40, the end is much closer than before. And while this advert wasn’t meant to be an announcement, the fans couldn’t differentiate between it in the moment. “Don’t scare me like that,” a fan wrote.

Another fan went to the extremes as they thought this could have been James confirming the wild rumors. “Come on Goat don’t give me a heart attack on this fine Saturday morning. The league needs you to play for another 10 years.. matter fact if you can play for the rest of your life that would be amazing. The NBA NEEDS YOU.. no wait… the WORLD needs you. Please think of your fans Goat,” they mentioned.

There were a lot more such anxious reactions filled in the comments of the post. There was also a section of Lakers fans who saw this as an opportunity to forward their request. “Got all this ad money can you please take a pay cut so you can get another championship?” they mentioned. That’s the core of the conversation if James decides to extend beyond next season.

During the previous offseason, he was willing to take less for the Lakers to sign a third star. Now, with Luka Doncic well placed, it has reached that point once again. A pool of tempting free agents and marquee players could be ready to move. And with LA’s allure, fans are convinced. “What’s next is you take a pay cut if you want the team to have a chance,” they say.

But it seems that business conversation has still not taken place. For now, fans are just pleased LeBron James isn’t retiring. “Don’t scare me like that,” exfoliated relief. However, it does add some curiosity. What is James working on?

Do you think LeBron James will take a pay cut for the Lakers? Let us know your views in the comments below.