LeBron James has built a legacy as one of the best scorers in NBA history, but his start to the current season has raised eyebrows. Through the first eight games, the 40-year-old superstar is averaging a career-low 16.5 points per game, a sharp contrast to the dominant scoring numbers fans have come to expect. As questions about decline and even retirement begin to surface, fellow NBA legend Carmelo Anthony is pushing back hard on that narrative.
According to Anthony, the King’s reduced scoring has far more to do with choice than capability.
He Took a Step Back.
Melo’s Take on LeBron’s Scoring Ability
Speaking on his podcast 7PM in Brooklyn, Anthony made it clear that he believes James could still score at an elite level-even in what would be his 23rd NBA season.
If he said, ‘I’m going to average 30,’ he would do it.”… “He was just averaging 27, 26 last season. Not that much has changed. He’s just taken a step back.
Carmelo said.
The Lakers don’t need 30 from LeBron
The Hall of Famers’ point centers on context. While the Lakers’ individual numbers are down, Los Angeles is thriving as a team. Despite James ranking behind Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves in scoring, the LA team has opened the season with a strong 17-7 record. Since returning from injury, LeBron has focused more on efficiency, ball movement, and fitting into the team’s rhythm rather than dominating possessions.
Anthony doubled down on his belief, arguing that modern NBA offenses make scoring easier than ever for elite players.
If that’s your job today, it’s not hard to score 25 or 30.
Anthony said, adding that the league’s pace, spacing, and rules heavily favor offensive production.
Reality Check: Age, Injuries, and a Changing Role
While Melo’s confidence in LeBron is rooted in respect and firsthand experience, there are legitimate reasons for skepticism. James entered the season dealing with sciatica, and at times, his age has been noticeable. He’s currently shooting 46% from the field and 30% from three, both below his career averages. Those efficiency dips have directly contributed to his lower scoring output.
It’s also worth noting that James hasn’t averaged 30 points per game since the 2021-22 season, when he carried a heavier offensive burden. This year’s Lakers roster simply doesn’t require that same level of scoring from him. With Doncic averaging over 33 points per game and Reaves contributing around 27, James has embraced a more balanced, playmaking-first role.
Still, writing him off would be premature. The season is young, and LeBron has a long history of ramping up production as his body adjusts. More importantly, he remains one of the greatest passers and basketball minds the game has ever seen. If that means sacrificing shots to elevate teammates, James has shown time and again that he’s willing to do exactly that.
Whether or not The King ever chooses to chase 30 again, Anthony’s message is clear: the ability hasn’t disappeared-only the need has.
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