LeBron James met with reporters before the 2026 NBA All-Star Game at Intuit Dome and provided direct answers about the Los Angeles Lakers’ playoff run, his long-term future and the league’s evolving showcase format.
With Los Angeles at 33-21 and fifth in the Western Conference at intermission, James made it clear what will determine the rest of the regular season.
“The most important thing for our ball club right now is health. I can’t say it any more clearly,” he said. “I don’t know exactly how many games we’ve played, but we’ve had a full squad and we’re over half way and it hasn’t been many games.”
The four-time champion emphasized that availability will determine performance.
“Our success will depend on our health,” he said. “Our coaching staff has put us in the right position. I think they’re going to give us the game plan every night, but when it comes to what we have to work with, we really have to go out there and see. We weren’t able to do that.”
When asked if uncertainty about his future adds urgency, the 22-time All-Star dismissed the idea.
“No, we’re getting ready for the postseason. So that has nothing to do with that,” he said. “The same motivation, the same spirit factor. We have passed the marathon and now the sprint will begin.”
James also discussed potential NBA ownership amid looming expansion discussions.
“There’s a lot of things on the table that I could take advantage of if I wanted to. That’s one of them,” he said. “But there are other ventures that I continue to explore and see what will excite and motivate me beyond my career. But for now, I am still aware of what is happening right now and with our season.”
As he once again shared an All-Star podium with old colleagues like Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant, he reflected on their parallel paths.
“As far as I’m concerned, Stephan and KD, we’re definitely connected for the rest of our careers,” James said. “It was great to be able to have some moments with those guys, collaborate with those guys and work with those guys.”
The new USA vs. World format replaced the traditional East-West match. James was blunt in his assessment.
“No. East-West is definitely a tradition,” he said. “I like the East and West format, but they’re trying something. We’ll see what happens.”
He also addressed an international audience, including China.
“Happy Chinese New Year,” James said. “You always welcome me and my friends and family with open arms and I always appreciate that.”
When asked about his long-term plans outside of basketball, the Lakers forward focused on family.
“What I want to do at 45, 50 and 55 will create a great atmosphere and fun with my family and friends,” he said. “Create memories that will last forever.”
As the regular season resumes, James has reduced the equation to one variable.
“If we can get healthy, how many minutes can we be on the floor, how much chemistry can we build when the sprint starts,” he said. “I hope if we can get healthy, we can start building that up.”
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