Lakers Fantasy Basketball: Evaluating LeBron James for Your Draft Strategy

LeBron James had an impressive season in 2023-24, showcasing his enduring talent and resilience. At 39 years old, he played in 71 games, marking his highest total since his days with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

This performance is particularly notable given his history of injuries, which had previously sidelined him for an average of 22 games per season over the last five years. During the season, James averaged 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game, while shooting 54% from the field and 41% from three-point range.

His contributions helped the Lakers secure a 47-35 record and reach the first round of the Western Conference playoffs.

He earned a spot on the All-NBA Third Team and was selected for the All-Star game, finishing 10th in Clutch Player of the Year voting.

Looking ahead to the 2024-25 season, James will turn 40 and enter his 22nd season after signing a two-year, $101.4 million contract extension with the Lakers.

While Anthony Davis has emerged as the team’s leading player, James continues to play a crucial role in orchestrating the offense.

This summer, he also shined on the international stage, leading Team USA to a gold medal at the Paris Olympics, further demonstrating his elite skills alongside other top players.

As fantasy basketball drafts approach, the question remains: is James a smart pick? His age and injury history raise concerns, but his consistent production makes him a valuable asset.

Dan Titus of Yahoo Sports suggested he could be a solid third-round choice, balancing risk with potential reward. “The production’s always been consistent – bank him for at least 25-7-7 with a field-goal percentage north of 50% and a couple of threes and a steal per game.”

Titus writes. “I wouldn’t be mad if you’re a LeBron stan and want to take him in the second round but an early third-round pick balances the risk and reward perfectly.”

In summary, LeBron James remains a significant player in the league, and his performance in the upcoming season will be closely watched by fans and fantasy players alike.