LeBron James' exit snaps 19-year NBA playoffs streak

And considering that Nikola Jokic, Anthony Edwards, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic will remain out West for the foreseeable future, the chances of James, Durant or Curry returning to prominence next season seem bleak — unless their teams pull off a blockbuster trade or two.  

Furthermore, the rest of the West must contend with a returning Ja Morant, the blossoming Rockets and Victor Wembanyama's Spurs next season. Plus, the Kings will look to have a bounce-back season, too.

Even James realizes that his years of making deep postseason runs could be over. In his season-ending presser, he opened up about the challenges to prepare his body for another grueling 82-game season.

"It's very taxing — mentally, physically, spiritually — to play this game alone," James said. "And to play it at a high level is even more taxing. It's a lot of dedication, hard work and long hours. But, it's also rewarding. If you love the game, the process, and being great, then you don't mind taking the tax on your body, and the mental [toll] that comes with it."

Just like last year's season-ending presser, James did not officially rule out retirement, stating that he will make a final call on his future after sitting down with his inner circle. James has a player option worth $51M for the 2024-25 season. Many insiders expect him to sign his last contract if he declines it.