On Sunday, LeBron James added another milestone to his illustrious 21-year NBA career by scoring 40 points in a victory, a feat he has achieved numerous times before.
However, the manner in which he accomplished this achievement was somewhat novel. James equaled his career-best performance by sinking nine 3-pointers in the triumph over the Brooklyn Nets, accomplishing this feat with just 10 attempts.
This impressive display raised his 3-point shooting percentage to a career-high 41.6% for the season, underscoring the evolving nature of James’s game as he approaches his 40th birthday next season.
Gone are the days when the four-time MVP could rely solely on his physical prowess. Instead of predominantly driving to the basket, James has transitioned into a more proficient jump-shooter this season.
He’s become more selective in his shot selection, a trend likely to persist as he nears the twilight of his remarkable career. Following Sunday’s 116-104 victory, James openly acknowledged that retirement is on the horizon.
“I’m not going to play another 21 years, that’s for damn sure,” James remarked. “Not much longer. While I can’t pinpoint exactly when I’ll retire, I know my time in the league is limited.”
James is poised to enter free agency after the current season, and rumors suggest that he is leaning towards staying with the Lakers on a lucrative three-year contract, potentially nearing his maximum salary. This arrangement could afford him the opportunity to share the court with both of his sons.
Bronny is eligible for the draft this summer, while Bryce will become draft-eligible in 2026. If James signs such a deal, it would extend his tenure with the Lakers through the 2026-27 season.
However, as he approaches his 40th birthday, nothing in the NBA is certain. Players at his stage must consider retirement on a yearly basis. While James continues to perform at an elite level and has adapted his game to maintain that standard, the unpredictability of physical decline or injury looms over every aging athlete.
Additionally, there’s the chance that his proficiency in shooting, particularly from beyond the arc, could diminish over time. Whether he has three more productive years or less remains to be seen. Yet, given the remarkable career of James, performances like Sunday’s masterpiece should be cherished in the moment, as there may not be many more opportunities to witness his greatness in the years ahead.