LeBron James’ stunning 38 points against Blazers put NBA Legend in awe despite the Lakers star being "only 5 years away from NBA pension"

LeBron James continues to defy age and expectations, leaving fans and former players in awe as he dominates the NBA at 40 years old. The four-time champion, who is just five years away from qualifying for the NBA’s pension plan scored a stunning 38 points against Trail Blazers. Following the match, he earned high praise from a former Sixth Man of the Year and Celtics champion, Kendrick Perkins. James' performance this season has sparked conversations about his legacy and ability to compete at the highest level against younger talents. Still, his performance remains unmatched.

LeBron James remains unshaken as the greatest of all time in the minds of several fans and analysts. The Lakers legend has recently put up a brilliant show against their matchup with the Portland Trail Blazers. The LA Lakers claimed the 114-106 victory over the Blazers with James leading the team with 38 points, 3 rebounds, and 8 assists on Thursday.

James’ stunning performance has certainly impressed NBA legend Kendrick Perkins who took to X to share his thoughts on the latest powerhouse performance from the 40-year-old NBA veteran. "Bron still out here on some grown man shit against these young fellas is beyond me. Dropping a 38 piece with the W when he’s only 5 years from being qualified for his NBA Pension," Perkins wrote on X.

In the game, James nailed a season-high seven three-pointers, while Max Christie added five as the Lakers secured their sixth win in eight games, edging past Portland for the fifth straight time. Austin Reaves delivered an all-around performance with 15 points, 11 assists, and eight rebounds. Despite Anthony Davis sitting out with a sprained ankle and Gabe Vincent sidelined by a hip injury, Jaxson Hayes stepped in, marking his return after missing 15 games. For Portland, Anfernee Simons led with 23 points, while Shaedon Sharpe and Deni Avdija chipped in 19 each.
As for James, he also earned praise from another NBA legend ahead of his game on Thursday night. Former Pistons point guard Isiah Thomas has recently appeared for a chat with SQUADawkins where he discussed the prowess of the Lakers legend. “Then LeBron (James) comes along and now he’s broken Kareem’s record,” Thomas said. “He’s at the top of almost every statistic, and what amazes me the most is that he surpassed Magic Johnson’s assists, who I consider the best point guard in history,” he added.
Also Read: “He is the best in history”: LeBron James earns praise from one NBA Hall of Famer in GOAT debate
Indeed, James is still making his presence known on the court averaging 23.9 points, 7.6 rebounds and 8.9 assists with a 50.2 field goal percentage. James’ name has been forged in NBA history, holding numerous records, including being the first player to surpass 39,000 and 40,000 regular-season points. He’s also the only player in league history to score 10 or more points in 1,000 consecutive games.