Amid reports of LeBron James settling into a tertiary role for the Los Angeles Lakers, the star forward turned back the clock to remind everyone what he is still capable of in Year 23.
Early in Monday’s road clash against the Houston Rockets, the four-time MVP converted a vicious poster dunk over forward Jabari Smith Jr., electrifying the NBA world.
LeBron James’ Highlight Slam Leaves the NBA World Buzzing
LA entered Monday riding a five-game winning streak that has allowed it to climb to third in the Western Conference (42-25). However, with Houston (41-25) hot on its tail, the third seed is up for grabs in the pivotal contest.
Ahead of the showdown, much of the narrative centered around James moving down in the Lakers’ offensive hierarchy below co-stars Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. LA coach JJ Redick even confirmed as much in his pregame interview, sharing that the “best thing for [his] team is [James] being the third-highest-used player.”
Perhaps James wanted to send a message against the Rockets, as he wasted no time making waves with his age-defying athleticism. Midway through the first quarter, the 41-year-old caught an outlet pass from Reaves on a fast break and instantly skied for a photo finish over Smith, 19 years his junior.
“Adding another poster to his all-time collection!” the in-game announcer exclaimed.
“Adding another poster to his all-time collection!”
BIG-TIME BRON SLAM on Peacock & NBCSN 🍿 pic.twitter.com/ecutZahuaH
— NBA (@NBA) March 17, 2026
Many on X were left in disbelief, raving about the 22-time All-Star’s sustained greatness.
“41-YEAR-OLD LEBRON JAMES JUST DUNKED ON JABARI SMITH JR. & STARED HIM DOWN! Greatest athlete ever?” Courtside Buzz asked.
“LEBRON JAMES JUST POSTERIZED JABARI SMITH JR.,” content creator Ahmed/The Ears reacted.
“LeBron all over Jabari Smith at the rim, and even stared the official down. THE KING,” SM Highlights asserted.
“LEBRON JAMES POSTER — OH MY GOODNESS. 🔥🔥🔥🔥,” Hoop Central applauded.
“LEBRON JAMES POSTER SLAM 🐐 HE’S 41 YEARS OLD!” NBA influencer Novo gushed.
“LEBRON JAMES PUT JABARI SMITH JR ON A POSTER, OH MY 😭,” NBA fan account Kyrie Center erupted.
While James’ dunk went viral, Dončić ultimately stole the show, continuing his trend of hot starts. The six-time All-Star tallied 16 of LA’s 29 first-quarter points.
Another signature win would go a long way toward the Lakers dispelling doubts about their playoff outlook as the season winds down after previously struggling against elite competition.
While they have won five consecutive games, they all came on their home floor, presenting an extra challenge on the road in Houston against a potential postseason foe.
