LeBron James Passes Chris Paul in Assists as Lakers Thrive

LeBron James, now 41 and in his 23rd season, insisted after the Lakers’ 120-114 win that "I don't have any holes in my game." He moved past Chris Paul into second on the all-time combined regular season and playoff assists list and posted 26 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds in that game. Through 17 starts he is averaging 21.2 points on 51.1 percent shooting, 6.7 assists and 5.2 rebounds, and he is attacking the rim more with free throw attempts rising from 4.7 to 5.7 per game. The Lakers are 22-11 and 11-6 in games he has played. Merlin sees a rare elder still shaping the story. Age carries limits, and defense invites questions, yet few players at 41 sustain this level of play. If LeBron stays healthy and keeps forcing plays, the Lakers remain a serious threat. Depth and defensive consistency will decide how far that spark takes them.