There were clear indications regarding LeBron James’ mood during warm-ups on Thursday. He was animated, moving around with excitement—arms waving, tongue sticking out, and a wide smile on his face.
He tossed the basketball high, letting Rui Hachimura catch it after one bounce, as the entire team responded enthusiastically to his cues.
It was evident he felt relaxed, happy, and, well, just like himself.
After a demanding loss to the top-ranked Thunder on Monday, James appeared rejuvenated just days later.
The 41-year-old seemed to revert back to a version of himself that defies age. According to figures from ESPN, he was responsible for scoring or assisting on the first 23 points of the Lakers’ 124-104 victory against the Mavericks. This marked the longest opening score streak of his career. At halftime, he already had 18 points and eight rebounds. Ultimately, he finished with 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists, making history as the oldest player to achieve a triple-double in the NBA.
“He’s got 23 years of his prime,” reflected Lakers coach JJ Redick.
James received a standing ovation at Crypto.com Arena when he grabbed his 10th rebound with just over two minutes left, setting the triple-double record. He eclipsed Karl Malone’s previous record; Malone had a triple-double at 40 years and 127 days, while James accomplished this at 41 years and 44 days.
“If I need to turn it on any night, I can do that,” James remarked.
Did the Lakers need this boost? Sure, after two consecutive losses, especially one against the Thunder, James seemed drained. “I’m just so tired,” he noted. “Sorry if I sound annoyed, but I’m 41 years old.”
However, after Thursday’s game, being 41 felt entirely different—it was extraordinary, not a hindrance; a revelation, perhaps.
As for his joy, James insists it never left him.
“It’s always me,” he commented. “I’m just a goofy 41-year-old kid. People should know that by now, right? I can play basketball, and I love doing it. I’m fortunate to have the support of my son, my teammates, and the incredible fans who have been there for me. I genuinely enjoy what I’m doing.”
As the first player in NBA history to enter his 23rd season, James has long expressed that he wants to play as long as he feels physically, mentally, and emotionally prepared.
After missing the first 14 games of the season due to sciatica, he had doubts about whether he could return to his previous level of excellence. His summer training was interrupted, which added to his concerns.
“Doubts about getting back on track do creep in,” he acknowledged.
Yet, finishing sixth in MVP voting last season, it’s clear he still has the potential to be the league’s top player.
Last season, he claimed he could keep playing at this level for another five years if he chose. When asked about it again, he was quick to affirm. “Yes, I can. I think it’s about my heart. The real question is: How long can I keep loving this process? That’s been me all along. If I can’t love the process anymore, then my body will follow. When my body breaks, it’s over. And without that love, everything else disappears.”
“It’s not like my game is falling off,” he added. “I know how to make an impact on the court, even if my vertical isn’t what it used to be. There’s still a lot I can do.”
James remained impressive on Thursday, sinking three-pointers against defenders, executing no-look passes, and dominating inside. For the game’s first seven minutes, he left a mark on every play, showcasing his continued dominance.
What seems to be changing, however, is his contemplation of how much longer he wants to do this. The ongoing issues regarding his relationship with Jeanie Buss or the noticeable gaps in the Lakers’ lineup, especially against a younger Thunder team, might make one wonder if he is leaning towards retirement.
Yet, on nights when he exudes happiness and makes basketball history with a rare triple-double, it’s hard to fathom him stepping away.
For now, we can only acknowledge that what he’s accomplishing is truly remarkable and not something to take lightly.
