Golf quickly became a passion for Los Angeles Lakers star forward LeBron James, as most aging players tend to pick up as an offseason activity. Since Los Angeles’ season came to an end back on May 11, James has already put up plenty of stories on Instagram with him out on the green.
When older NBA players begin to golf, it tends to signal the end of a career and a search for something to fill the void left by basketball. Although he is 41-years-old, James demonstrated that he can still contribute to winning basketball despite his age and he shut down the notion that picking up golf as a new hobby signals potential retirement, via Sean Gregory of Time:
He also suggests that it’s unwise to read too much into his interest in golf—a popular retiree pastime. “I’m happy that I picked it up at this point in my life, but that has nothing to do with my decision on my playing career,” says James. “That is separate. I love golf, man. But I also know the main thing is the main thing. And that’s my love for the game of basketball. If I continue to play, then that’s always gonna be my passion.”
Dating back to last free agency, the Lakers and James were unable to come to terms on an extension. This, therefore, left the future Hall of Famer on an expiring contract with no certainty surrounding his immediate future. Contending teams will presumably be lining up to try and lure him away from Los Angeles.
However, he is in no rush to come to a decision when free agency opens on June 30 and James will likely wait to see what general manager Rob Pelinka does with the roster. Despite no certainty with him remaining in L.A., it makes sense for both sides to give it one last go. Until then, James can continue to be seen out on a golf course somewhere working on his game as he ponders what’s next in his basketball career.
Frankly, James deserves this time off after willing the Lakers to a first-round series win against the Houston Rockets. He showed that he can do unreal things 20-plus seasons in and there remains more in the tank heading into a potential 24th season.
Rich Paul has not yet had conversation with LeBron James on future
As the top free agent available this summer, LeBron James will have numerous opportunities to play elsewhere besides Los Angeles and no one knows if he has thought about the possibility of finding a new team. So much so that Klutch Sports CEO, Rich Paul, James’ agent, has not yet talked to him about what’s next for his future.
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