In the first few weeks of this NBA season, LeBron James was inconsistent, and he often looked like a man who was 37 years old and in his 20th pro season.
More recently, he has looked like his usual potent self.
Over his last 14 games, the four-time MVP has averaged 28.6 points on 51.6% overall shooting and 37.4% from 3-point range, 8.2 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game.
His improved play has played a major role in the Los Angeles Lakers’ improved play after a 2-10 start.
James improved his season averages to 27 points on 48.5% shooting, 8.5 boards and 6.5 dimes a contest. When it comes to what others have done in their 20th seasons, there is simply no comparison.
Most PPG in their 20th season:
3.9 — Robert Parish
5.4 — Vince Carter
10.1 — Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
12.0 — Dirk Nowitzki
17.6 — Kobe Bryant
[gap]
27.0 — LeBron JamesBron is also averaging 8.5 RPG and 6.5 APG. pic.twitter.com/j0vYHumpRF
— StatMuse (@statmuse) December 19, 2022
Earlier in the schedule, James wasn’t attacking that much off the dribble, nor was he looking to create transition opportunities. But now, he is moving around with decisiveness and purpose, not to mention aggression, and his numbers reflect that.
He is at the point at which he has no peer when it comes to his longevity, except perhaps Lakers great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
James' last four games have been remarkable for someone his age
In his last four games, James has had at least 30 points while shooting well above 50 percent from the field. The Lakers won three of those contests; their lone loss in that span came against the Boston Celtics when they blew a late 13-point lead and narrowly fell in overtime.
LeBron James over the last 4 Games:
35 PTS – 5 REB – 5 AST – 58% FG
33 PTS – 9 REB – 9 AST – 56% FG
30 PTS – 9 REB – 4 AST – 65% FG
33 PTS – 7 REB – 9 AST – 54% FG pic.twitter.com/woz2PMKSva— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) December 19, 2022
By putting up four consecutive games of at least 30 points at age 37 or above, he has joined some extremely select company.
LeBron James has tied Michael Jordan for the most consecutive 30-point games aged 37 or older with his FOURTH straight tonight.
Greatness personified 👑 pic.twitter.com/e8bO5cjSqP
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPointsApp) December 19, 2022
During his current streak over the last few weeks, James has served up plenty of highlights while looking like he’s 27 and not 37.
We’re not even halfway through the season and Bron’s Year 20 tape is already ridiculous. pic.twitter.com/Oep6nuyulK
— LeBron History 🏀 (@bronhistory) December 15, 2022
LEBRON JAMES >>> FATHER TIME pic.twitter.com/6QSvcdsBgI
— Lakers Lead (@LakersLead) December 17, 2022
Reaves LeBron pic.twitter.com/NRPk5ozpDX
— That's a highlight (@ClipIt_NBA) December 19, 2022
LEBRON JAMES.
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) December 19, 2022
As some recent Nike commercials have alluded to, James appears to be beating Father Time or at least keeping it at bay.
The Lakers will need him to play like this while Anthony Davis is out. At the same time, it will be important for them to manage James’ workload so he doesn’t burn himself out and to keep him fresh for what they hope will be an extended playoff run this spring.
