Kevin Durant Says LeBron James Could Play Into His Mid-40s
kevin-durant-says-lebron-james-could-play-into-his-mid-40s
Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant believes Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James can remain in the NBA well beyond the usual retirement age. Speaking to SportsCenter after the Lakers’ second straight win over Houston, Durant said he would not be surprised to see the 41-year-old James compete for several more seasons.
“I think he can play until he’s 45,” Durant said. “I don’t know if he wants to be around that long, but I think he can play another four or five years. He’s 41, but he looks great out there.”
The comments followed James’ near-flawless performance on March 16, 2026, at Toyota Center. The forward hit 13 of 14 shots, scored 30 points and repeatedly overpowered Houston defenders in the paint, helping the Lakers secure a second consecutive victory over the Rockets.
James also set a league milestone in the process, becoming the oldest player to record at least 30 points while shooting 90 percent or better from the field. The previous age mark for that feat was almost five years younger.
Now in his 23rd NBA season, James has adjusted his role in Los Angeles but continues to produce at a high level, sharing the spotlight with longtime contemporaries Durant and Stephen Curry. Durant credited James’ longevity to his dedication to training and sustained love for the game.
Source: Lakers Nation
