LeBron James continues to redefine the limits of athletic performance in the NBA. At 40 years and 38 days old, he scored 42 points, 17 rebounds, and eight assists, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a 120–112 victory over the Golden State Warriors. This achievement makes him the oldest player in NBA history to score at least 40 points in a game, surpassing Michael Jordan's previous record.

This begs the question: Is LeBron James just that great, or has the NBA's competition level declined?

LeBron’s Unprecedented Longevity

No player in NBA history has sustained such elite production at this stage of their career. Through the first half of the 2024-25 season, LeBron is averaging:

25.2 points per game (PPG)

7.8 rebounds per game (RPG)

7.2 assists per game (APG)

53.4% field goal percentage (FG%)

These numbers not only rival his younger self but also place him among the NBA’s top-tier players today. His ability to still drop 40-point games showcases a unique blend of skill, basketball IQ, and physical maintenance that is nearly unheard of.

Comparing Across Eras

LeBron’s dominance at this age naturally sparks comparisons to past greats. At 40, Michael Jordan was averaging 20.0 PPG on 44.5% shooting in his final season with the Washington Wizards. Kobe Bryant, who retired at 37, struggled with injuries in his final years, averaging 17.6 PPG on 35.8% shooting in his last season.

Yet, LeBron continues to perform like a top-10 player in the league, leading his team in scoring, facilitating offense, and remaining a defensive presence.

Is the NBA’s Competition Declining?

Some critics argue that LeBron's continued dominance is a reflection of a weaker NBA rather than his individual greatness. They cite:

Lack of Defensive Physicality – The modern NBA favors offense, with rule changes making it easier for players to score. Hand-checking is outlawed, and defensive three-second violations prevent true paint enforcers from controlling the lane.

Pace and Space Era – With a greater emphasis on three-point shooting and floor spacing, defenses are stretched thinner than in past eras, allowing more driving lanes and open shots for elite scorers.

Load Management and Injuries – Many of today’s top superstars (e.g., Kawhi Leonard, Kevin Durant, and Joel Embiid) frequently miss games due to injuries or rest, making it easier for someone like LeBron to sustain success against a depleted talent pool.

The Verdict: LeBron Is Still That Good

While the NBA’s evolution has made scoring easier, LeBron’s ability to adapt and remain dominant cannot be overlooked. His efficiency at his age is unprecedented, and his ability to command the game in multiple facets remains elite.

It’s easy to suggest that a weaker league has enabled his longevity, but the reality is few, if any, players could replicate what he’s doing at 40. The NBA may have changed, but LeBron James remains a generational talent, defying logic and expectations as he continues his legendary career.

So, is LeBron that good, or is the NBA that bad?

The answer is likely a mix of both, but one thing is certain: LeBron James is still a force to be reckoned with.