As LeBron James nears the age of 40 years old, he is currently in the midst of lowest offensive productivity of his career. This, of course, leads to questions on just how long James can still be considered as one of the top players in the NBA.
As I write this, LeBron is coming off a 10 point performance in a blowout loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. He failed to make a three-pointer in the setback and has now missed his last 19 three-point shots.
James, as expected, downplays his slump by saying all he needs to do is keep working and that will lead him to refinding his rhythm. Normally, I would agree with LeBron. But this year may be different. I mean, he is almost 40 years old. How long can we expect his brilliance to continue?
James
James did admit that he is not feeling his normal self on the floor. The numbers back up his diagnosis. He has scored fewer than 20 points in five of his last six games. In all six of those contests, James has shot below 45 percent from the field, which is the longest streak since his rookie season in 2004.
Overall, James’ shooting numbers have taken a big hit this season. Yes, he’s scoring 22 points per game, his fewest since his rookie season, on 48.2 percent shooting, his lowest shooting percentage since his fourth NBA season in 2006-07.
LeBron may be feeling a bit different than he did at the start of the season, He regularly stated he wanted to play in all 82 games during the 2024-25 season. Now he is noncommittal in meeting that goal.
The Lakers, as a team, are also struggling. They are in a virtual tie with the Phoenix Suns for the seventh seed in the Western Conference at 12-9. This team just does not play defense and James clearly is a defensive liability at this stage of his career.
The Lakers can survive without LeBron playing much defense. But they need his offense. I guess we will see if James can find his rhythm.
