Dalton Knecht, a rising player for the Los Angeles Lakers, has sparked speculation about LeBron James’s NBA longevity by suggesting the superstar may continue playing until he is 50 years old. Knecht shared these thoughts in mid-2025 while reflecting on his experience alongside James and his belief that the Lakers veteran’s career could extend another decade.
Dalton Knecht’s Journey and Close Bond with LeBron James
Dalton Knecht’s NBA career began when the Los Angeles Lakers selected him with the 17th pick after his tenure with the Tennessee Vols. Early on, he found himself sharing the court with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, quickly carving out a role as an energetic contributor off the bench. Knecht’s career-high 37-point game against the Utah Jazz highlighted his potential, and throughout his rookie season, he often relied on James for guidance and support.
LeBron frequently offered Knecht advice during games, acting as a mentor to the young player. However, their dynamic faced uncertainty when Knecht was briefly traded to the Charlotte Hornets—a move that was later reversed by the Lakers. Knecht returned to Los Angeles feeling uncertain about his future, missing a few games to process the upheaval.
Upon his return, James once again stepped into the role of advisor, helping Knecht navigate the situation and find his footing back with the Lakers. Now a key figure off the bench, Knecht holds a strong belief in James’s continued presence on the team, expecting the veteran to keep playing for several more years.
Dalton Knecht’s Bold Forecast on LeBron’s Playing Future
In an interview with TMZ Sports, Knecht expressed that LeBron James might extend his playing career for another five to ten years, potentially remaining active until age 50. This statement highlights both Knecht’s admiration for James’s conditioning and the possibility of James adapting his game to suit team needs over time.
He said he can play another 5, 10 years. So, me and Bron could run it for another five, 10 years. Why not?!
—Dalton Knecht
Knecht’s comments align with the broader perception of LeBron’s extraordinary fitness, work ethic, and basketball IQ, which have already allowed him to remain one of the NBA’s top players well into his late 30s. Given these factors, Knecht’s prediction is grounded in more than mere optimism.
LeBron James’s Own Views on Coaching and Retirement
While Knecht speculates on a lengthy playing career for James, the veteran himself has made clear his disinterest in transitioning to coaching after retirement. When asked by a fan via the Mind the Game podcast about which NBA team he might coach, James gave a definitive refusal.
There’s no way, guys. Alfonso Taylor, appreciate you for the kind question. But it ain’t happening, no team. Zero chance.
—LeBron James
The sentiment received public support from Steve Nash, a former two-time MVP and ex-head coach of the Brooklyn Nets, who humorously advised James to never consider coaching. This shared perspective suggests that, should James retire from playing, his connection to the league will likely bypass coaching roles, possibly leading to interests in franchise ownership instead.
Teammate Austin Reaves on Staying with the Lakers Amid Trade Rumors
Supporting the narrative that LeBron will remain with the Lakers, key teammate Austin Reaves expressed a strong desire to continue his career in Los Angeles despite ongoing trade speculation. Reaves emphasized his loyalty to the franchise, the city, and the fans, signaling stability within the Lakers roster moving forward.
I want to be in LA. I want to play my whole career in LA. I love it there. I love the fans. Love the weather, love the golf. And obviously the Lakers is the best organization in basketball. (on trade rumors) I don’t pay attention to it. I keep my head down work, and I feel like that’s one of the reasons I’m where I’m at.
—Austin Reaves, quoted by Charles McCary
The 27-year-old guard, speaking at his basketball camp in Arkansas, acknowledged rumors but conveyed readiness to accept whatever outcome unfolds. His commitment to the Lakers mirrors LeBron’s longstanding presence with the franchise, suggesting continuity for the team’s core players.
Contextualizing LeBron’s Longevity and Its Impact on the Lakers
LeBron James’s potential to play into his 40s, possibly up to age 50 as Dalton Knecht envisions, would mark an unprecedented milestone in NBA history. This prospect carries substantial implications for the Lakers, who aim to maintain a championship-level roster around their veteran star. A prolonged LeBron career could influence future personnel decisions, salary cap management, and team strategy.
Furthermore, LeBron’s decision to avoid coaching post-retirement signals that his future involvement in the league may come through ownership or other executive roles, keeping him intertwined with basketball beyond his playing days.
As the Lakers prepare for the upcoming season, they face the challenge of building a supporting cast capable of contending for a fifth title for LeBron, while balancing the demands of a veteran player who defies normal age boundaries in professional sports. This dynamic creates both opportunities and uncertainties for the organization and its fanbase.