Is LeBron James’s Decline a Major Concern? NBA Insights Revealed!

As we approach the exciting climax of the NBA Cup, let’s delve into the latest batch of fan queries and insights… 

Mannix! How do you assess LeBron James’s performance this season? Despite his brilliance, it seems he’s showing early signs of aging. —Charles, Naples, Fla. 

Having observed LeBron James extensively this season, both in person at Los Angeles Lakers games and on television, my brief response is that even nearing 40, James remains a top 25 player in the league. However, a quarter way through the season, there are unmistakable signs, sometimes more apparent than others, of his decline.

Defensively, there’s a noticeable deterioration. While James still shows occasional flashes of his prime defensive prowess, as seen in a few instances against the Oklahoma City Thunder and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, his consistency on the defensive end has waned.

On offense, he’s pivoting to use more strength over sheer athleticism. He’s capable of explosive moments—like his recent dunk over Jonathan Isaac of the Orlando Magic—but these instances are becoming less frequent. It’s somewhat akin to an older boxer who still competes at a high level but isn’t quite as sharp; consider George Foreman in his later years, or Vasiliy Lomachenko more recently.

James’s recent struggles from beyond the arc also highlight concerns—he’s missed 24 consecutive three-point attempts and didn’t make a single one in his last four games. Though he mentioned feeling out of rhythm after a recent game in Minnesota, it’s likely his shooting will improve. Nonetheless, the fact that he is still a topic of discussion at this stage of his career is extraordinary.

How credible are the Cavs, and can their success extend into the playoffs? —gman4720, via Threads

I’m thoroughly impressed with what I’m witnessing in Cleveland. Their offense is incredibly efficient, leading the NBA in scoring, field-goal percentage, and three-point accuracy. Donovan Mitchell is a genuine MVP contender, Darius Garland is enjoying his best season yet, and Kenny Atkinson seems perfectly suited to guide this young, talented team.

Garland, in particular, has been standout. Despite some skepticism over his fit with the Cavs, he’s responded with career-high three-point shooting (45.2%) and has boosted his scoring average above 20 points per game.

As for postseason potential, their recent games against the Boston Celtics—a close loss in Boston and a victory at home against a Jaylen Brown–less Celtics—indicate promising prospects. Although concerns about their defense at the point of attack remain, and depth becomes less critical in the postseason, Cleveland appears poised as a serious contender.

Could this be the year for Oklahoma City? This team seems the strongest since 2012 and even more robust. How long can they keep this group together? —Mark, Reno, Nev.

Mark, several factors make this an exciting time for the Thunder. They lead the Western Conference with a defense that’s not only the best in the NBA but also notably physical. They play aggressively, forcing turnovers, stealing the ball, and protecting the rim effectively.

This team is exceptionally strong and is currently the favorite to top the West. Looking ahead, maintaining this roster will become costly. Alex Caruso is soon eligible for an extension, and I anticipate a deal will be reached. Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams will be eligible for extensions next summer, and both are likely to command maximum rookie contracts.

While I believe Oklahoma City will compete with this lineup through the season, the offseason could bring significant changes. With a plethora of young talent and potentially four first-round picks in the upcoming draft—which is expected to be deeply talented—the Thunder are well-placed to make impactful trades.

They seem to be setting up for a major move. A rival team executive suggested the signing of Isaiah Hartenstein was strategic—not only does he strengthen the frontcourt, but his sizeable, tradable contract could be crucial in future negotiations.

I read your piece on Cooper Flagg. Is he a clear-cut No. 1 pick like Victor Wembanyama was, or is there room for debate with players like Ace Bailey? —Marcus, Brooklyn

Scouts are universally optimistic about Cooper Flagg. He’s an athletic, elite weakside blocker, and a robust defender with emerging offensive playmaking skills. His physical attributes and versatility will likely thrive with superior guard play at the NBA level, enhancing his transition and pick-and-roll plays. However, despite his potential, Flagg’s performance against the seasoned Kansas Jayhawks was not particularly dominant, showing that he may not be a guaranteed top pick like Wembanyama.

Ace Bailey, another promising prospect, has started strong and could stir some debate in the coming months about who should be the top draft pick.

Your thoughts on the proposed changes to the All-Star Game format? —Thomas, via Instagram

Honestly, I’m indifferent. The All-Star Game will continue regardless of the format changes; it’s neither completely salvageable nor entirely dismissible. 

Which NBA team is currently the most talked about in terms of potential trades? —Elvin, Portland, Ore. 

That would be the Washington Wizards. They have a number of veteran players like Kyle Kuzma, Malcolm Brogdon, and Jonas Valanciunas who are drawing significant interest from contending teams. Valanciunas has been linked to the Lakers, a fitting move considering their need to bolster the frontcourt. Kuzma, too, has been the subject of trade speculation, with teams like the Dallas Mavericks showing interest in the past. It seems likely that Washington will be open to offers as they look to reposition their roster.