Lakers' LeBron James Talks NBA Retirement, Injury Rehab and Playing with Son Bryce

While Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James knows the end of his legendary NBA career is drawing nearer, he's thankful he isn't feeling any outside pressure to retire.

While speaking to the Associated Press, James praised his children for pushing him to play for as long as he can.

"They're like, 'Dad, continue on your dream. This is your dream. Continue on your focus. You've been here for us this whole time,'" he told the AP, per ESPN. "When you have that type of support … it makes it a lot easier."

The 40-year-old made it clear that he has his eyes set on preparing for his 23rd season in the NBA. He said his knee is feeling "good" after suffering a sprained MCL in the Lakers' first-round playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves, and he's focused on getting healthy in time for training camp.

"I have a lot of time to take care of my injury, my knee, the rest of my body and make sure I'm as close to 100 percent as possible when training camp begins in late September," he said.

James also acknowledged it would be "insane" for him to still be playing in the NBA when his younger son, Bryce, becomes draft eligible in 2026. After sharing the floor with his oldest son, Bronny, this past season, he won't rule out the possibility of sticking around to experience that with Bryce as well.

"At this point of my career, you think about when the end is. That's human nature," he said. "You think, is it this year? Or next year? Those thoughts always creep into your mind at this point of the journey. But I have not given it a specific timetable, date. I'm seeing how my body and family reacts too."