LeBron James has spent the past six seasons reshaping the concept of longevity in the NBA, and he shows no signs of slowing down. According to NBA insider Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report, it’s expected that LeBron will remain with the Lakers for at least another year.

LeBron is set to earn $52.6 million next season if he exercises his player option, and given the Lakers’ current situation and his strong passion for the game, it seems unlikely that he’ll retire just yet. At 40 years old, he continues to post All-NBA numbers, averaging 24.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 8.9 assists, while shooting an impressive 51.6% from the field and 39.7% from three. The Lakers are still his team, with his son Bronny now on the roster, and unless something unexpected happens, it’s expected that LeBron will continue his career in Los Angeles.

Despite LeBron hinting at retirement in the past, his actions indicate otherwise. After the Lakers’ recent win over Portland, he emphasized his continuing love for the game:

“I still love the game… And I still got a lot to give-to the game, to my teammates, to this league while I’m here. I don’t have much time left. So, while I’m here today in this time, I’m going to try to give what I got when I’m out on the floor.”

For years, LeBron has spoken about the dream of playing in the NBA alongside his son, Bronny, and with that now becoming a reality, retirement seems unlikely:

“Why? It’s the love of the game… And I have an opportunity now to show my son the ranks of how to be a professional in this league. And to be along with him every single day, that’s a treat.”

And why would James retire? Earlier this season, LeBron scored 42 points, becoming the oldest player in NBA history to score 40 in a game.

Then, just two weeks later, he did it again, scoring another 40 points against Portland. With his massive contract, his son on the team, a superstar teammate in Luka, and no signs of slowing down, the choice seems clear. LeBron James isn’t done yet. And for the Lakers, that’s the best news they could ask for.