Is it Time? Should These NBA Stars Retire?

A meme on Youtube Shorts is “The NBA in 2055”. It shows a picture of Steph Curry and says “retired.” Then Durant, then Giannis, and others. At the end it shows Lebron and says “Lebron still playing with his Grandson.” I used to laugh at it, until in a press meeting, Lebron confidently said he could easily play for 5 to 7 more seasons in the NBA. Lebron is a freak of nature. A forty year old man still dominating 20 year olds in a high contact sport is unheard of. But Lebron plays them like their kindergarteners, fearlessly. Lebron has taken incredible care of his body, but he said he won’t retire when he can’t physically play basketball anymore, but instead he will leave on his own terms. But Lebron isn’t the only older star. What other supernovas are burning out? Steph Curry The greatest shooter of all time. Don’t even try to argue. He’s made 3,868 threes and shot 42.5% from downtown over his career. However, he’s 36 and every shot he takes it seems like it takes more and more effort to get off. More screens, more dribbles, more cuts. His team is no longer a contender and is trending in the wrong direction. Curry no longer has great scorers around him. No Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson, CP3 or even Jordan Poole. Curry seems alone on the Warriors. Curry said himself, “It’s not bad to think about retirement. It makes us appreciate the moment more.” Verdict: While still being capable of dominating, Curry should start considering retirement when his contract expires next season, or switch teams in free agency. Kevin Durant The Slim Reaper, Easy Money Sniper, Durantula. All are famous nicknames for the 36 year old on the Phoenix Suns. Durant is the all time Olympic Men's Basketball scorer. He claimed the title this summer. Durant’s stats haven’t changed much over the past three seasons. He continues to play at an elite level on both ends of the court, even if his team isn’t executing great. Durant keeps finding ways to dominate on the court. Verdict: While retirement isn’t far off, Durant still has a fight in him that will last for a while. Lebron James The 40,000 point 40 year old continues to be the face of the league. His stats are incredible, his form hasn’t changed, and he still runs the court for chase downs like he’s in his prime. But Lebron seems a little unrealistic with his goals. It is highly unlikely that he will play until he is 47 years old. He’s already playing with his son, which is a little weird. However, Lebron has kept his body in great shape, and his other son Bryce is on track to come to the league in a couple seasons. Verdict: After Lebron can play alongside Bryce as well, he should retire before his body can no longer handle what he is doing.