Durant Believes LeBron Can Play 4-5 More Years

NBA stars praise each other's longevity and skill as LeBron continues to dominate at age 41.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 7:04am

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NBA superstars Kevin Durant and LeBron James have been fierce rivals for years, but Durant recently praised LeBron's continued excellence, saying he believes the Lakers star can play for 4-5 more seasons despite being 41 years old. Durant acknowledged LeBron's love for the game and natural talent as key factors in his ability to remain an elite player at such an advanced age for an NBA player.

Why it matters

LeBron's longevity and sustained dominance at the highest level of professional basketball is a remarkable achievement, especially as he approaches his mid-40s. Durant's comments highlight the respect LeBron has earned from his peers and underscore how he continues to defy expectations and age norms for NBA players.

The details

In a recent matchup between the Lakers and Rockets, LeBron had a standout performance, scoring 30 points on 13-of-14 shooting to lead the Lakers to victory. Meanwhile, Durant struggled, getting shut down in the fourth quarter. After the game, Durant praised LeBron, saying he believes the Lakers star could play until he's 45 years old. Durant noted that at 41, LeBron 'looks great out there' and credited his love for the game as a key factor in his ability to remain at the top of his game.

  • LeBron James is currently 41 years old.

The players

LeBron James

A 41-year-old NBA superstar who continues to dominate the league despite his advanced age, playing for the Los Angeles Lakers.

Kevin Durant

An NBA superstar in his late 30s who has been a fierce rival of LeBron James for years, currently playing for the Houston Rockets.

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What they’re saying

“I think he could play until he's 45 years old. I don't think he'll be around that long, but I think he could play for another four to five years, to be honest. It's not a surprise anymore.”

— Kevin Durant

“At his age, 41, but he looks great out there. When you love the game as much as he does, you'll do anything to stay locked in and on top of your game. He's very inspiring as a human being.”

— Kevin Durant

What’s next

As LeBron James continues to defy age and expectations, basketball fans will be closely watching to see how long he can maintain his elite level of play. Durant's comments suggest that James may have several more productive seasons left in the NBA.

The takeaway

LeBron James' ability to remain an NBA superstar well into his 40s is a testament to his unparalleled skill, dedication, and love for the game. Durant's praise of his rival's longevity highlights the mutual respect between two of the league's all-time greats and underscores how LeBron continues to inspire awe and admiration from his peers.