LeBron James sets another new record after NBA award results

The NBA finally announced the league MVP on Wednesday. After much anticipation, the result was ultimately an obvious one.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder claimed the first MVP trophy of his career. A combination of strong individual and team success proved too much for Nikola Jokic to contend with.

The night was all about Gilgeous-Alexander. However, LeBron James actually made some history in the process as well. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar set a new NBA record as the oldest player to receive MVP votes, according to HoopsHype.

James supplanted Michael Jordan, who was the previous holder of the distinction. Jordan finished 13th in MVP voting during his 2001-02 season with the Washington Wizards. As seen above, LeBron’s finish was more impressive, claiming 6th in the 2024-25 NBA MVP race.

LeBron continues to reassure Lakers at every step

With every passing season of James’ legendary 22-year career, the NBA world continues to anticipate a significant drop-off in the production of the all-time great, especially at this point. The four-time NBA champion refuses to provide that.

James averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists, and 1.0 steal per game in 2024-25, while shooting 51.3 percent from the field and 37.6 percent from beyond the arc. The four-time Finals MVP even enjoyed a rejuvenated campaign on the defensive end.

LeBron was never going to seriously contend for the MVP this season, not with the incredible two-man race at the top between Jokic and Gilgeous-Alexander. However, still garnering attention in the race at all is an incredible feat.

James’ season should be well on its way to being recognized among his peers as All-NBA caliber, yet again. This will extend his legendary streak of receiving those honors to 21 seasons in a row.

With a player option for this offseason, there have been pundits and even some fans questioning whether the Lakers would be better off without the 21-time All-Star. Another legendary achievement and a reminder of James’ sustained excellence answers that question with an obvious ‘no.’

The Lakers will certainly look to retool and build a title contender around their new superstar, Luka Doncic, this offseason. There should be no doubt in anyone’s mind that barring a Giannis-sized miracle, James is still clearly the best option available for a Doncic running mate.

There is still some time before those decisions needs to be made. However, the point here is that they really are a no-brainer.