At age 35, LeBron James is already on the short list of the greatest players in basketball history.
In reflecting on his career to this point, it’s interesting to compare and contrast his performances at different stages of his development. Is experienced LeBron is better than young LeBron? Was LeBron better with the Heat or the Cavaliers?
Let’s get even more specific: What was LeBron’s greatest NBA season?
LeBron Wire aims to answer that question with your help. Below is the first round of our “LeBron’s Greatest Season” voting bracket.
A bit about our methodology: Like the NBA MVP award, postseason is not included – otherwise, there wouldn’t be much suspense. Seedings are ranked by win shares, as determined by basketball-reference. The suspended 2019-20 season is not included, as we all remain optimistic it will resume at some point.
Without further ado, let the balloting begin. Vote early and often!
First round: April 13 – April 16 (noon ET)
Second round: April 16 – April 20 (noon ET)
Semifinals: April 20 – April 23 (noon ET)
Finals: April 23 – April 26 (noon ET)
Round 1: 1) 2008-09 vs. 16) 2003-04
No. 1 seed: 2008-09 season – Cavaliers
| Age | G | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG |
| 23/24 | 81 | 37.7 | 28.4 | 7.6 | 7.2 |
LeBron earned his first MVP award while leading the Cavaliers to a franchise-record 66 victories. A year after winning the NBA scoring title, he finished second in that category to future teammate Dwyane Wade (30.2 ppg). LeBron led the NBA with 594 free throws made and won conference Player of the Week honors seven times – a single-season league record that still stands.
No. 16 seed: 2003-04 season – Cavaliers
| Age | G | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG |
| 18/19 | 79 | 39.5 | 20.9 | 5.5 | 5.9 |
LeBron was only 18 when he debuted as a professional, so his rookie stats should be viewed in that context. He shot 41.7% from the field that season, the only time in his career below 47%. Nevertheless, he was named Rookie of the Year, joining Amar’e Stoudemire as the only winners who went directly from high school to the NBA.
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