LeBron’s Longevity Continues to Impress Doc Rivers
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Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers said he remains astonished by LeBron James’ ongoing productivity as the Los Angeles Lakers forward navigates his 23rd NBA season.
Speaking ahead of the Bucks-Lakers matchup on Jan. 9, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena, Rivers highlighted the 41-year-old’s ability to maintain elite form. “Just his age and watching what he does … he’s had the greatest run ever,” Rivers noted, adding that no one has matched James’ level of performance for such an extended period.
James entered the season late after sitting out preseason and training camp, but his recent production shows little sign of decline. Over the past 10 games, the four-time champion has averaged 25.9 points, 5.1 rebounds and 6.3 assists while shooting 54.9 % from the field and 34.7 % from three-point range.
The veteran’s endurance was evident against Milwaukee, where the 21-time All-Star spearheaded a fourth-quarter surge to keep Los Angeles within striking distance. Despite those late heroics, a turnover with 16 seconds remaining prevented the Lakers from tying the game, and the Bucks secured the victory at the free-throw line.
Los Angeles also dealt with foul trouble for Luka Doncic, who eventually fouled out, leaving James to shoulder the offensive load. Even so, the forward’s capacity to seize control late in games underscores the longevity Rivers described as “pretty amazing.”
James has not provided a timeline for retirement, and his sustained output suggests a potential 24th season remains a realistic option.
Source: Lakers Nation
