Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports
Here's Why LeBron James Will Likely Retire With Boston Celtics
From Pete Maravich to Shaquille O’Neal, a multitude of basketball superstars have finished their playing careers with the Boston Celtics. LeBron James could be the next in line.
The Celtics currently hold the rights to two first-round picks in the 2024 NBA Draft, both of which are projected to be within the early to late twenties range. One of those picks could be used to select Bronny James, the eldest son of the four-time NBA champion.
On August 9th, Draft Digest’s latest mock draft projected James to be chosen with the 24th pick. This is in spite of the 18-year-old going into cardiac arrest at a University of Southern California basketball practice.
Drafting Bronny James could pave the way to the Celtics signing his Hall-of-Fame-bound father. James has previously expressed desire to play alongside his son before retiring.
“My last year will be played with my son,” James told Jason Lloyd of The Athletic in 2022. “Wherever Bronny is at, that’s where I’ll be. I would do whatever it takes to play with my son for one year. It’s not about the money at that point.”
James has the option to enter free agency during the summer of 2024. By that time, the 19-time NBA All-Star will be 39-years-old.
After this hypothetical signing, Boston’s anticipated starting lineup would include Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, LeBron James, Jayson Tatum, and Kristaps Porzingis. Based on his career trajectory, James could realistically average 20+ points, 4+ assists, and 4+ rebounds per game.
Although James’ availability would likely be limited due to age, assuming that he’s willing to accept a significant pay cut, his upside should be appealing to the Celtics. Boston could maintain its status as championship contenders, with a primary focus on Tatum and Brown, while allowing James to assume a role as the third scoring option.
Considering James’ draft projection and the fact that the Celtics hold two draft picks around that range, Boston is a probable destination for the 6-foot-3 guard. Franchises without multiple first-round draft picks are more likely to proceed with caution, especially after James’ health scare.
Further Reading
Celtics Sign Sharpshooter Svi Mykhailiuk
Celtics Keeping the Door Open for a Blake Griffin Reunion
Brad Stevens Discusses Differences in Joe Mazzulla Entering Year 2 as Celtics' Head Coach
Brad Stevens Discusses Kristaps Porzingis' Role with Celtics, Provides Rehab Update
Kristaps Porzingis Speaks on Recovery from Foot Injury: 'I Couldn't Get Rid of the Inflammation'
Celtics Meeting with Three of the Top Remaining Free Agents This Week
Here's What to Know About Celtics' 2023-24 Schedule
Examining How Celtics' Starting Lineup Might Shapeshift This Season
Why Celtics Should Enter 2023-24 Season Optimistic About Most Important Area of Improvement
