LeBron James is 40 and still locking down the NBA’s best. While others age out, he’s dominating defensively in ways that are turning heads and breaking the numbers.
In his 22nd season, LeBron James isn’t just defying age, he’s redefining expectations. While the headlines often focus on his offensive production, it’s his elite defensive impact that now sets him apart.
According to advanced metrics, the 40-year-old Lakers star has been the best defensive player in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, outperforming many of the league’s top rim protectors and perimeter stoppers.
Defensive Excellence Backed by Data
James is leading all postseason defenders in opponent field goal percentage at the rim, a staggering 36.4%. This figure is especially noteworthy given that it includes only players who have defended at least 20 shots in the playoffs, putting him ahead of towering shot-blockers like Kristaps Porzingis (62.5%) and Chet Holmgren (57.7%).
The numbers continue to impress. Across just four games, James recorded 17 “stocks” (steals plus blocks), averaging 2.3 blocks and 2 steals per game, ranking 4th and 6th overall among all playoff participants in those categories.
Game 4 vs. Minnesota: A Masterclass
LeBron’s defensive performance in Game 4 of the first-round series against Minnesota was a showcase in veteran awareness and timing. In the fourth quarter alone, he tallied three blocks, including one on a near-certain layup. He also registered a late-game strip on Anthony Edwards, a play whistled as a foul but widely viewed as a clean defensive stop.
Though the Lakers were eliminated by the Timberwolves, James’ defensive contributions stood tall amid the team’s exit.
Versatility, Longevity, and Defensive IQ
What separates LeBron isn’t just raw numbers, it’s his ability to guard multiple positions and take on the toughest assignments. In the 2025 postseason, he has defended stars like Julius Randle and Anthony Edwards, while his regular season saw him battle wings like Kawhi Leonard.
His court time remains remarkable. James has logged 40.8 minutes per game in the playoffs, alongside 26.3 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists, all while maintaining the energy and discipline to lead the team defensively.
Still Setting the Standard
The whispers of retirement continue to follow LeBron, but so far, he’s responded the only way he knows how: by dominating. He’s not just contributing, he’s anchoring.
While his iconic blocks and signature chasedown plays have long been part of NBA lore, the 2025 postseason reinforces the reality that LeBron James remains a defensive cornerstone in high-stakes games.
At 40, LeBron continues to prove that greatness doesn’t age, it adapts, evolves, and endures.
