TITLE: GM Survey Shows League Executives Still Rate LeBron James Among NBA’s Elite
SLUG: lebron-james-receives-votes-2025-26-nba-gm-survey
CONTENT:
With his 23rd NBA season set to tip off, Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James continues to command respect from league decision-makers. The NBA’s annual General Manager Survey, released ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, placed the 40-year-old in several top categories despite his advancing age and an early-season injury setback.
Small Forward Rankings
Executives named James the fourth-best small forward in the league, giving him 7 percent of the vote. His teammate Luka Dončić topped the position at 40 percent, followed by Jayson Tatum (20 percent) and Kevin Durant (17 percent). James shared the fourth spot with Kawhi Leonard of the LA Clippers, who also received 7 percent.
Leadership
GMs tied James for fourth place in the “best leader” category, again at 7 percent. Stephen Curry led with 43 percent, while Jalen Brunson (13 percent) and Nikola Jokić (10 percent) rounded out the top three. James shared the fourth position with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Versatility
In the poll for the league’s most versatile player, James finished in a three-way tie for third at 7 percent. Antetokounmpo and Victor Wembanyama split first place with 30 percent each. Evan Mobley and Jalen Williams matched James at 7 percent.
Basketball IQ
Executives placed James second for highest basketball IQ, awarding him 17 percent of the vote. Nikola Jokić dominated the category with 80 percent, while Chris Paul received 3 percent.
Context for Year 23
James enters the season after earning an All-NBA Second Team nod at age 40, a feat accomplished during his 22nd year in the league. The Lakers plan to limit his workload early; the team confirmed he will miss the opening weeks of the regular season while treating right-side sciatica. Both the organization and James believe the revamped roster will allow the veteran to ramp up gradually and remain fresh for the playoffs.
Source: Lakers Nation
