By Sunday 
Even in Year 22, LeBron James is out here defying logic, age, and pretty much every expectation that comes with being 40 in the NBA.
The King Still Rules
Despite a bumpy end to the Lakers’ playoff run, LeBron’s performance this past season was nothing short of spectacular. Freed up by Luka Doncic’s arrival to take on more of the offensive load, James poured his energy into defense while still stuffing the stat sheet like he was 25.
He averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists on an incredibly efficient 51/38/78 split — numbers that not only helped the Lakers hit 50 wins but also earned him a surprising sixth-place finish in the 2025 NBA MVP voting.
The league’s top five was packed with the usual monsters: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander took the crown (and rightfully so) with 71 first-place votes, while Jokic, Giannis, Tatum, and Mitchell filled in the rest. But there was LeBron, right behind them — turning heads and raising eyebrows.
Fans Lose It Over LeBron’s Longevity
Lakers fans — and honestly, hoop fans everywhere — had some strong feelings when they saw LeBron’s name pop up in the top 10 yet again.
“Lebron came in 6th in MVP voting at 40 years old…MJ could never,”
— @MalaceWithMurph
“lebron being 6th in mvp voting going on 41 years of age is beyond crazy,”
— @LakeShowUp
“LeBron getting MVP votes at 40 and you tell me he’s not the greatest of all time,”
— @amiteshprasad99
“Lebron getting MVP votes for 22 years straight is crazy,”
— @JaySpencee
It’s clear the respect for LeBron’s longevity isn’t just about numbers — it’s about legacy. The dude has been in the MVP conversation every year since flip phones were still a thing.
Running It Back in Year 23?
LeBron has said before that he won’t play until the wheels fall off, but it doesn’t look like those wheels are even wobbling. With the kind of production he delivered this season, it’s not a stretch to think he’s coming back stronger — especially if the Lakers can give him a better frontcourt to support another title run.
At this point, James has nothing left to prove. But the chase for that fifth ring? That might just keep the fire burning a little longer.
And hey — if sixth place at 40 is “declining,” most players would kill for that kind of fade.