For two decades, LeBron James has been the undisputed king of the NBA – a forward who’s dominated the world’s best basketball league for so long that we often take his achievements for granted. Entering the league as a rookie in 2003-04, he’s now in his 23rd season – a “romantic” fact matching his iconic jersey number. But nothing lasts forever, and one of the greatest athletes ever is shattering age norms.
On Dec. 30, the Lakers forward turned 41 and continues “extraterrestrial” feats. Most pros retire years earlier, but LeBron aged gracefully – adapting his game while staying elite. This season, however, has been different: an injury robbed him of preseason, leading to his worst level in ages.
LeBron’s NBA 2K26 Ratings Decline NBA 2K26 mirrors real performance with overall and category ratings updated throughout the season. LeBron started at 94 (top 10), but updates have dropped him to 92 – 18th place, his lowest since NBA 2K5 (88 in his sophomore year). Tyrese Maxey just passed him. After 20 years dominating the game and the video game, LeBron is on the verge of falling out of the top 20.
Top 20 Players in NBA 2K26 (Latest Update)
| Rank | Player | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nikola Jokic | 98 |
| 2 | Shai Gilgeous-Alexander | 98 |
| 3 | Giannis Antetokounmpo | 97 |
| 4 | Luka Dončić | 97 |
| 5 | Anthony Edwards | 96 |
| 6 | Victor Wembanyama | 95 |
| 7 | Stephen Curry | 95 |
| 8 | Donovan Mitchell | 95 |
| 9 | Jaylen Brown | 95 |
| 10 | Jayson Tatum | 94 |
| 11 | Kawhi Leonard | 94 |
| 12 | Cade Cunningham | 94 |
| 13 | Kevin Durant | 93 |
| 14 | Jalen Brunson | 93 |
| 15 | Tyrese Haliburton | 93 |
| 16 | Devin Booker | 93 |
| 17 | Tyrese Maxey | 93 |
| 18 | LeBron James | 92 |
| 19 | Anthony Davis | 92 |
| 20 | Karl-Anthony Towns | 91 |
LeBron’s drop reflects his 22.5 PPG (second-worst since rookie year) and Luka Dončić emerging as the Lakers’ top guy. Even injured, LeBron’s an icon – but the throne is slipping.
Do you think LeBron climbs back into the top 10 if the Lakers surge? Or is this the end of the King’s reign? Drop your thoughts below