Dwyane Wade surprises by talking about LeBron retirement and makes a candid revelation

Dwyne Wade doesn’t hold back when talking about LeBron James. The former teammate and close friend of the Los Angeles Lakers star openly admitted that LeBron is “old” and that, at some point, he should consider retirement.

However, Wade also made a candid confession, making it clear that his admiration for James remains intact and that, beyond age, every moment he spends on the court is invaluable.

Dwayne Wade reflects on LeBron’s longevity

At the start of his 23rd NBA season, LeBron James officially became the oldest active player in the league, surpassing even Vince Carter.

“I know it’s like, ‘he’s old, he should retire,’” Dwyne Wade said, acknowledging the reality everyone talks about. But the former shooting guard added an unexpected nuance: “I’m going to miss him. He’s just enjoying these moments; we don’t know when the last one will come.”

Wade is not just a spectator; he speaks from experience, having shared a locker room with LeBron and having lived through their glory years together in Miami.

For him, LeBron’s age does not erase the relevance of his impact on the court or his ability to influence games beyond the physical.

In every interview and public appearance, Wade has reiterated that he remains a fan and that his connection with LeBron goes beyond the numbers.

Dwyane Wade on LeBron James in Year 23:

“I’m like you guys, I’m a fan. I know it’s like, ‘he’s old, he should retire’. But at the same time, I’m gonna miss him… He’s just taking these moments in, we don’t know when the last one is coming.”

(via @ArashMarkazi) pic.twitter.com/lhfTu5rVC4

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) December 13, 2025

Between criticism, admiration, and uncertainty

Despite comments from rivals like Dillon Brooks, who boldly said, “He’s old,” Dwyne Wade insists that this perception doesn’t capture the full reality of James.

LeBron’s 40 years have brought load management and strategic rest, but the former MVP continues to create memorable moments and demonstrates his basketball IQ on the court.

Wade nostalgically recalls how he once helped James dominate games; today he sees similar flashes in LeBron, even if Luka Doncic or other teammates complete some of his iconic plays.

The decision of when to retire remains a mystery. LeBron has not set a date, and Dwyne Wade acknowledges that this keeps the topic fascinating for the league and its fans.

What is clear, according to Wade, is that every remaining game is a gift that the NBA should cherish, because watching LeBron in action, even “old,” remains an incomparable spectacle.