LeBron James Rumors: Lakers Star Expected to Fulfill Contract amid Retirement Talk

While his NBA future is uncertain for the time being, Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James isn't expected to retire and leave a massive payday on the table, according to ESPN's Dave McMenamin.

James will start his two-year, $97.1 million extension with the Lakers in 2023-24. McMenamin reported one source close to the four-time MVP "believes the Lakers star will indeed be back for season No. 21 and fulfill his contract."

Following Los Angeles' Western Conference finals exit at the hands of the Denver Nuggets, James was noncommittal about his playing status moving forward.

"We'll see what happens going forward," he told reporters. "I don't know. I don't know. I've got a lot to think about, to be honest. ... Just for me personally going forward with the game of basketball."

Yahoo Sports' Jake Fischer reported Thursday the general sentiment "came as a surprise to many Los Angeles staffers." He added, however, that "there's widespread skepticism" LeBron will actually follow through with retirement.

The 38-year-old continues to play at a high level, especially considering his age and the 65,747 minutes he has played across the regular season and playoffs.

He averaged 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds and 6.8 assists in 2022-23, and he nearly dropped a triple-double (40 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists) in his team's season-ending defeat.

James' contract provides him with nearly $100 millions to keep going as well.

His foot injury could be an underplayed dynamic in the situation. The Athletic's Shams Charania reported Friday the 19-time All-Star has a torn tendon in his foot that might require offseason surgery.

Even though James would likely be available in time for the start of the 2023-24 season, a months-long recovery period won't be a lot of fun. In addition, injuries like this often accelerate the decline for aging stars.

James could decide the physical toll simply isn't worth it anymore.

Based on McMenamin and Fischer's reports, the common consensus doesn't think that will be the case.