LeBron James has defied time for so long that fans almost take it for granted. But as he enters his 22nd NBA season, the question looms larger than ever: can the 39-year-old still carry the Los Angeles Lakers on a championship run?
If preseason form is any indication, the answer may be yes. James continues to play at an elite level, averaging 25 points, 8 assists, and 7 rebounds last season while shooting nearly 50% from the field. While other players from his 2003 draft class have long since retired, LeBron is still producing at a superstar level.
“He’s like a machine,” said Lakers head coach Darvin Ham. “His preparation, his attention to detail, the way he takes care of his body — it’s what keeps him at the top even after two decades.”
The Lakers, however, know they cannot rely on LeBron alone. Anthony Davis remains the team’s anchor in the paint, coming off a season where he re-established himself as one of the NBA’s premier defenders. The front office also bolstered the supporting cast, bringing in more shooting and depth, hoping to avoid the inconsistency that plagued last year’s campaign.
Still, the spotlight shines brightest on LeBron. Every season at this stage of his career feels like borrowed time, and fans can’t help but wonder when the inevitable decline will come. Yet, he continues to push back against that narrative.
“I’m not thinking about the end,” LeBron said during media day. “I’m thinking about the now. As long as I can play at a high level and help my team win, I’m going to keep going.”
The Lakers’ title hopes hinge on more than just his production — it’s about timing, health, and matchups. The Western Conference remains a gauntlet with defending champion Denver, the rising Oklahoma City Thunder, and the ever-dangerous Golden State Warriors all in the mix. To reach the Finals, the Lakers will need consistency and, perhaps most importantly, luck with injuries.
Around the league, peers continue to marvel at LeBron’s longevity. Kevin Durant, now entering his own 17th season, recently praised James. “What he’s doing at this age is insane,” Durant said. “It just shows the blueprint for how to take care of yourself if you want to play this long.”
Beyond the stats and wins, there’s also a sense of history every time LeBron takes the court. He is already the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, and every additional game, basket, and assist cements his place in the record books. Younger players, many of whom grew up watching him dominate, now line up to face him with equal parts respect and ambition.
For Lakers fans, the stakes are clear. With LeBron nearing 40, the window for another championship is closing fast. The franchise is balancing the future with Bronny James, LeBron’s son now playing college basketball at USC, and the present urgency to maximize whatever time remains with “The King” still in purple and gold.
As the new season tips off, all eyes will be on whether LeBron James can summon one more magical run. He’s beaten the odds countless times before. But this year feels like the ultimate test: father time versus the greatest of his generation.
If history has taught us anything, betting against LeBron is rarely wise.
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