Austin Reaves has really gotten to know LeBron James well during his several years with the Los Angeles Lakers.
He has seen his commitment to the game, his love for his team, and his skills.
Because of that, Reaves has a strong opinion about the NBA icon.
“In my opinion, he’s the best player to ever touch a basketball. He probably could have retired six years ago and people would still say the same thing. He has enough money regardless of what he was saying on that podcast the other day. He has enough money. The only reason he’s still playing basketball, it’s because he loves the grind. He loves the game. He wants to continue to get better,” Reaves said.
Austin Reaves says LeBron could’ve retired six years ago and still been considered the greatest player of all time
“In my opinion, he's the best player to ever touch a basketball. He probably could have retired six years ago and people would still say the same thing. He has… pic.twitter.com/qlVgCI3Thv
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) October 2, 2025
Reaves isn’t the only person who believes James is the best to ever play the game.
There are numerous fans, players, and analysts who feel that James is a cut above the rest and the greatest of all time.
As he gets closer and closer to retirement, that view only grows.
James has been playing for so long that even if he had retired years ago, his place in league history would still be cemented in stone.
The question now is how much longer will he remain in the NBA?
No one would be shocked if he retires within the next year or two, but others wouldn’t be surprised if he lasts another four or five years.
At this point, James’ future is uncertain, but fans want a lot more.
Reaves is going to enjoy every second he gets to play with James, because he knows he is standing beside an NBA legend unlike any other.
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