LeBron James is defying all odds as he continues to perform at peak levels well beyond the age where most players have retired; he’s still making headlines even at 40 years old, averaging 24.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game this season. This performance, coming during his 22nd NBA season, has solidified his status as one of the league’s most remarkable talents.
Over the last ten games, James has upped his scoring game, averaging 28.7 points, including a breathtaking 40-point performance against the Portland Trail Blazers. It is this kind of playmaking ability and consistent motivation for younger athletes inside and outside the sport, which keeps the debate alive: who is the true G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time)—LeBron James or Michael Jordan?
Statistically, both players have compelling arguments, but James's ability to thrive at this stage of his career—with numbers resembling those of his younger years—gives him the edge according to many analysts. Notably, he broke Ray Allen's record by surpassing 1,148 games with at least one made three-pointer, another milestone underscoring his longevity and skillset. "LeBron James has passed Ray Allen for the most games (1,148) with a made 3-pointer," reported StatMuse.
Currently, the Los Angeles Lakers hold the fourth seed in the Western Conference standings with a record of 34-21, establishing themselves as serious contenders this season. Over their last ten games, the Lakers are sporting an impressive 8-2 record, which has certainly turned heads around the league. Their success is also echoed by their scoring metrics: they are outscoring their opponents by 14.2 points per 100 possessions when James and new teammate Luka Dončić are on the court. Evan Sidery of Forbes notes their offensive and defensive ratings: "118.8 OffRtg (5th) 104.5 DefRtg (1st) +14.2 NetRtg (1st)." This kind of synergy not only boosts the Lakers but also enhances the entertainment value of each game, making them must-see TV.
LeBron has described his connection with Dončić, remarking, "I’m a natural-born wide receiver and he’s a natural-born quarterback, so it fits perfectly." This encapsulation of their chemistry hints at the potential for the duo to create dynamic moments on the court as they continue to build on their partnership.
Looking forward, the Lakers have two consecutive home games lined up, with Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves next on the docket. This will set the stage for James to assert his influence and possibly add another championship ring to his collection. If James can maintain his current form and the team chemistry thrives, many believe winning another title could definitively position him as the clear leader of the G.O.A.T. discussion.
With the playoffs approaching, all eyes will be on how James and the Lakers perform. Will his brilliance on the court continue to shatter norms for his age, or will the pressures of maintaining such elite performance take their toll? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: LeBron James is not just playing basketball; he’s rewriting the narrative of what it means to be one of the game's greatest players, making the rest of the season as exciting as ever.