Apr 30, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts during the first half in game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images / Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

James will be entering year 23 of his NBA career, but he is still playing at a very high level. Last season, the former league MVP averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game.

LeBron James didn't sign a max contract when he joined the Miami Heat in 2010. Instead, he took slightly less as a way to help Miami put the best possible roster around him. They won two championships in the years that followed,