Ian Eagle has been courtside for every chapter of LeBron James' legendary career, and the veteran Prime Video announcer isn't ready to write the final one just yet.

After the Lakers' playoff exit, James did what he's done in recent seasons—telling reporters he'd take time with his family before deciding his next move. The four-time champion is now a free agent following eight seasons in Los Angeles, leaving fans to wonder if we've seen the last of The King.

But Eagle, who called three Lakers games this postseason, sees things differently. In a recent appearance on the Sports Media with Richard Deitsch podcast, he made a compelling case that James deserves—and will likely give—far more notice before hanging up his sneakers.

"I didn't work that series thinking, is this it? Is this the last we'll see of LeBron James?" Eagle explained. "Maybe because I don't believe it is. I just feel that he would end on a different note, with more of a conversation leading up to it than an abrupt ending."

It's a tradition that's become part of NBA lore. When Kobe Bryant announced his retirement in advance, every arena became a stage for farewell celebrations. Opposing teams shared gifts, fans delivered standing ovations, and the entire league paused to honor a legend. Eagle believes LeBron has earned that same treatment.

"I think he's meant so much to the game, and certainly with how popular the NBA has become worldwide, he's played such a huge role in it," Eagle said. "I'm not saying he requires the city-to-city show that would take place knowing it's his final year, but I think part of what the NBA is all about is celebration."

James has grown increasingly vocal about his legacy over the years, though whether he'd embrace a full farewell tour remains uncertain. But for Eagle, the calculus is simple: "It would be almost wrong if this thing just ended out of nowhere without a real appreciation from the fans."

Whether LeBron returns for another season or decides to ride off into the sunset, one thing is clear—when the moment finally comes, the basketball world will want to say thank you properly.