Dalton Knecht Expects LeBron James to Play Until He is 50 Years Old

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has been teasing about retiring from basketball for the past couple of years.

Dalton Knecht Expects LeBron James to Play Until He is 50 Years Old

Dalton Knecht revealed LeBron James wants to play 5-10 years (Image via FirstSportz)

Dalton Knecht could not believe his luck when he landed at No. 17 with the Los Angeles Lakers. The Tennessee Vols star was to start his NBA career playing alongside the likes of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

He slotted in well and was a spark off the bench. Knecht even notched his career-high 37 points in a win against the Utah Jazz. When he went through those stretches, one of his biggest cheerleaders was the oldest player in the league.

James often guided his rookie during games, offering ample advice whenever the youngster asked. All that changed when the 24-year-old was traded to the Charlotte Hornets. The trade, however, was rescinded, and Knecht came back to Los Angeles confused about his future.

Upon return, he missed a couple of games as he tried to make sense of what had just happened. When he decided to return to play for the Lakers, again, it was LeBron James who was there to offer advice and support.

It seems he will not be going anywhere soon, after the franchise probably realized they were making a mistake. Now, as one of the most important bench performers, Dalton Knecht seems to believe he will be playing alongside his 40-year-old teammate for quite a while.

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 said to TMZ Sports

The Tennessee Vols star’s words suggest LeBron James will probably extend his career until he is 50 years old. Considering how he is conditioned, that claim is not something that can be taken lightly. If James wants, he could adjust according to the needs of the team and continue playing.

LeBron James has no interest in coaching

It is not known if Dalton Knecht was serious or if this was just a way to poke fun at the media member hounding him at the airport. Only LeBron James knows how long he will continue to play in the NBA. Knowing how engrossed he is in the sport, a fan sent an email to Mind the Game podcast asking which team James would coach:

Lakers stars LeBron James and Dalton Knecht
Lakers stars LeBron James and Dalton Knecht (Image via The Score/X)

There’s no way, guys. Alfonso Taylor, appreciate you for the kind question. But it ain’t happening, no team. Zero chance.

LeBron James said

When co-host Steve Nash read this question out loud, he stopped in the middle and advised James to never coach a team. That was something coming from the 2-time league MVP who was the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets basketball team.

However, he was also not surprised that his all-time leading scorer co-host feels the same way about coaching. James has no interest whatsoever, which means once he retires, the only way he stays connected to the NBA is if he is the owner of a franchise.

LeBron James’ teammate ready to accept Lakers’ fate

As the days go by, it looks ever so likely that LeBron James continues to play for the Los Angeles Lakers next season. That means he will be looking towards competing for his 5th title. For that, the franchise has to make some moves and land necessary reinforcements.

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.

Charles McCary quoted Austin Reaves

K8 News’ Charles McCary quoted this after speaking with star guard Austin Reaves at his basketball camp in Arkansas. The 27-year-old is aware of the trade rumors, but knows he cannot do anything about them. Instead, he is ready to accept his fate, no matter if it is away from the Lakers or with them.

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