Ranking Every LeBron James Season In His Career: Was 2018 His True Best?

Stats: 27.5 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 9.1 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Achievements: All-Star, All-NBA First Team, Second in MVP Voting

LeBron’s 2018 season is one of the most memorable in NBA history, not just for his numbers but for the sheer effort it took to carry a mediocre Cleveland Cavaliers team all the way to the Finals. Playing all 82 games for the first time in his career, LeBron averaged 27.5 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 9.1 assists, truly embracing his role as the team’s do-it-all player. He was second in MVP voting, and it’s a testament to his individual greatness that he nearly won it despite the Cavs’ struggles throughout the season.

The playoff run that followed was arguably even more impressive. From the seven-game battles with the Indiana Pacers and Boston Celtics to sweeping the top-seeded Toronto Raptors, LeBron consistently elevated his play, averaging 34.0 points during the playoffs. His Game 1 performance in the Finals, a 51-point masterpiece against the Golden State Warriors, solidified this season as iconic, even though Cleveland was ultimately swept. This season might not have ended with a ring, but many still argue that 2018 showcased peak LeBron.

2. 2012-13 NBA Season (Miami Heat)

Stats: 26.8 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 7.3 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Achievements: NBA Champion, Finals MVP, Regular Season MVP, All-Star, All-NBA First Team, All-Defensive First Team

The 2012-13 season stands out as one of LeBron James’ most complete and dominant campaigns, both individually and as a leader of the Miami Heat. With a regular season record of 66-16, the Heat were unstoppable, including a jaw-dropping 27-game winning streak that remains one of the longest in NBA history. LeBron was at the center of it all, putting up 26.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game while shooting a remarkable 56.5% from the field. His efficiency and versatility were off the charts, earning him his fourth regular season MVP award.

LeBron’s defense was also at its peak during this season, which earned him All-Defensive First Team honors. His leadership on both ends of the floor made the Miami Heat the team to beat. On top of his MVP award, LeBron was also named to the All-NBA First Team and selected as an All-Star, further showcasing his standing as the league’s best player. The combination of his scoring, passing, rebounding, and defensive dominance made him nearly unstoppable on a nightly basis.

The playoffs were another chapter in LeBron’s incredible season, as the Heat battled their way to a thrilling seven-game series victory over the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals. LeBron capped off the season with a legendary Game 7 performance, scoring 37 points and grabbing 12 rebounds to secure his second consecutive championship and Finals MVP award. The 2012-13 season was a defining moment in LeBron’s career, as it showcased his place in the Heat basketball Olympus.

3. 2015-16 NBA Season (Cleveland Cavaliers)

Stats: 25.3 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 6.8 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements: NBA Champion, Finals MVP, All-Star, All-NBA First Team

LeBron’s 2015-16 season was all about getting Cleveland that long-awaited championship. He averaged 25.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 6.8 assists while leading the Cavaliers to a 57-25 regular season record. The Cavaliers were first in the East, but even though LeBron didn’t win MVP, he was still the team’s engine and the city’s hope for a title.

The playoffs saw LeBron turn it up, especially in the Finals against the 73-win Golden State Warriors. Down 3-1 in the series, he went off with two straight 41-point games in Game 5 and Game 6, dragging the Cavaliers back into the fight.

Then, in Game 7, LeBron put the team on his back again. His block on Andre Iguodala is probably one of the most talked-about plays in NBA history. He finished the game with a triple-double and grabbed his third Finals MVP as Cleveland won its first-ever NBA title. This season really cemented LeBron’s legacy, especially for fulfilling his promise to bring a championship to the Cavaliers.

4. 2011-12 NBA Season (Miami Heat)

Stats: 27.1 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 6.2 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Achievements: NBA Champion, Finals MVP, Regular Season MVP, All-Star, All-NBA First Team, All-Defensive First Team

The 2011-12 season was the moment LeBron finally got over the hump and secured his first NBA championship. He averaged 27.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 6.2 assists while helping lead the Miami Heat to a 46-20 regular season record in a lockout-shortened year. LeBron’s all-around game was in full force, earning him the regular season MVP as he dominated on both ends of the court.

In the playoffs, LeBron was on a mission. After losing in the Finals the year before, there was a ton of pressure on him to deliver, and he did just that. The Heat made it to the Finals, and LeBron stepped up big time, especially in the clinching Game 5 against the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he put up a triple-double. He grabbed his first Finals MVP and officially became a champion.

This season was huge for LeBron’s career. After years of criticism and falling short, he finally silenced the doubters by proving he could lead a team to a title. The 2011-12 season was the start of LeBron’s championship run in Miami.

5. 2009-10 NBA Season (Cleveland Cavaliers)

Stats: 29.7 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 8.6 APG, 1.6 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Achievements: Regular Season MVP, All-Star, All-NBA First Team, All-Defensive First Team

LeBron’s 2009-10 season was another monster year for him, statistically speaking. He averaged 29.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.6 assists while leading the Cavaliers to a league-best 61-21 record. He was named MVP for the second straight season and looked like the most dominant player in the league. On both ends of the floor, LeBron was a force, making the All-Defensive First Team for the second year in a row.

But despite the regular-season success, the playoffs didn’t end the way LeBron or the Cavaliers hoped. They were upset by the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, and it sparked a lot of talk about whether LeBron would stay in Cleveland. This was the season right before he made "The Decision" to join the Miami Heat, so while it was an amazing individual season, the ending left a sour taste.

Looking back, this season marked the end of LeBron’s first run with the Cavs, and even though it didn’t result in a title, his individual dominance was undeniable.

6. 2008-09 NBA Season (Cleveland Cavaliers)

Stats: 28.4 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 7.2 APG, 1.7 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Achievements: Regular Season MVP, All-Star, All-NBA First Team, All-Defensive First Team

The 2008-09 season was a huge leap for LeBron as he secured his first MVP award. He was a one-man wrecking crew, averaging 28.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 7.2 assists while leading the Cavaliers to a 66-16 regular season record, the best in the league. His all-around game was unmatched, and he also made the All-Defensive First Team, showing just how valuable he was on both ends of the floor.

The Cavaliers were heavy favorites heading into the playoffs, but they fell short of the Finals after being knocked out by the Orlando Magic in the Eastern Conference Finals. Even though the Cavs didn’t reach the ultimate goal, LeBron had some insane playoff performances, including a 49-point game against the Magic.

This season cemented LeBron as the league’s top player, even if the Cavs couldn’t make it to the Finals. His first MVP and a 66-win season made this year one of the best of his career.

7. 2016-17 NBA Season (Cleveland Cavaliers)

Stats: 26.4 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 8.7 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements: All-Star, All-NBA First Team

The 2016-17 season saw LeBron continue his elite play, averaging 26.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.7 assists while leading the Cavaliers to a 51-31 regular season record. The Cavs had a bit of a rocky regular season compared to the previous year, but LeBron still made sure they stayed competitive in the East. He remained the team’s focal point and was named to the All-NBA First Team yet again.

In the playoffs, LeBron flipped the switch as usual, leading the Cavs back to the NBA Finals for the third straight year. They cruised through the Eastern Conference, but when they faced the Golden State Warriors—now with Kevin Durant—the Cavs were overpowered. LeBron still put up monster numbers in the Finals, averaging a triple-double, but the Cavs fell in five games.

Even without a title, LeBron’s 2016-17 season was another display of his all-around dominance. He continued to be the driving force of the Cavs and remained one of the best players in the league.

8. 2005-06 NBA Season (Cleveland Cavaliers)

Stats: 31.4 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 6.6 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Achievements: All-Star, All-NBA First Team

The 2005-06 season was a huge one for LeBron as he reached another level in his career, averaging a career-high 31.4 points per game. At just 21 years old, he added 7.0 rebounds and 6.6 assists per game, showcasing his all-around game. LeBron earned his first All-NBA First Team selection and carried the Cavaliers to a 50-32 record, which was enough to secure a playoff spot for the first time in his career.

In the playoffs, LeBron made his postseason debut and didn’t disappoint, leading the Cavaliers to the second round. The Cavs pushed the Detroit Pistons to seven games in the Eastern Conference Semifinals before being eliminated. LeBron had multiple standout performances during the playoffs, proving that he could rise to the occasion when it mattered most.

This season marked the beginning of LeBron’s playoff legacy and was a turning point in his career as he showed he could carry a team on his shoulders.

9. 2007-08 NBA Season (Cleveland Cavaliers)

Stats: 30.0 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 7.2 APG, 1.8 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Achievements: Scoring Champion, All-Star, All-NBA First Team,

LeBron’s 2007-08 season was a big one statistically, as he led the league in scoring with an average of 30.0 points per game. He also contributed 7.9 rebounds and 7.2 assists, showing just how much of an all-around threat he was. The Cavaliers finished with a 45-37 record, and LeBron earned another All-NBA First Team selection, while also being named an All-Star.

In the playoffs, the Cavs faced the Boston Celtics in a tough seven-game series in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. LeBron had some big moments, including a 45-point effort in Game 7, but the Cavaliers couldn’t get past the eventual champions. Even though the Cavs didn’t make a deep playoff run, LeBron’s individual performance throughout the year was undeniable.

This season really highlighted LeBron’s ability to carry the Cavaliers, both with his scoring and his all-around game. While the team didn’t go far in the postseason, LeBron’s 2007-08 campaign showed he was one of the top players in the league.

10. 2010-11 NBA Season (Miami Heat)

Stats: 26.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 7.0 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements: All-Star, All-NBA First Team, All-Defensive First Team

LeBron’s first season with the Miami Heat was a major adjustment for both him and the team. He averaged 26.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.0 assists, playing alongside Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. The Heat finished the regular season with a solid 58-24 record, and LeBron made both the All-NBA First Team and the All-Defensive First Team, continuing to dominate on both sides of the floor.

The 2010-11 season is remembered for the hype surrounding the formation of the Heat’s "Big Three," but it didn’t end how they hoped. The Heat made it all the way to the Finals, only to lose to the Dallas Mavericks in six games. LeBron was heavily criticized for his play in the Finals, especially in the fourth quarters, where he seemed to struggle.

This season was a learning experience for LeBron and the Heat. While they didn’t win the championship, it set the foundation for the team’s future success, and LeBron’s individual play was still top-tier, even though the ending was a disappointment.

11. 2014-15 NBA Season (Cleveland Cavaliers)

Stats: 25.3 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 7.4 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements: All-Star, All-NBA First Team

The 2014-15 season marked LeBron’s return to the Cavaliers after his four-year stint with the Miami Heat. LeBron averaged 25.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 7.4 assists while leading the Cavs to a 53-29 record, good for second in the Eastern Conference. He once again earned an All-NBA First Team selection, and his return brought new hope to the city of Cleveland.

In the playoffs, LeBron led the Cavaliers to the NBA Finals, but lost key teammates Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving to injuries along the way. Facing the Golden State Warriors in the Finals, LeBron put up heroic performances, averaging 35.8 points, 13.3 rebounds, and 8.8 assists in the series. The Cavaliers ultimately lost in six games, but LeBron’s efforts, carrying a shorthanded team, were widely praised.

While the season didn’t end in a championship, LeBron’s return to the Cavaliers was a huge success, and his leadership and individual brilliance in the playoffs were undeniable. It set the stage for the championship run that would come the next year.

12. 2006-07 NBA Season (Cleveland Cavaliers)

Stats: 27.3 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 6.0 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements: All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

The 2006-07 season was a major milestone for LeBron and the Cavaliers. LeBron averaged 27.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists, leading the Cavs to a 50-32 record and the second seed in the Eastern Conference. While he didn’t make the All-NBA First Team this year, LeBron still had a stellar season, being named an All-Star once again and cementing his spot as the leader of the Cavaliers.

In the playoffs, LeBron took the Cavaliers to the NBA Finals for the first time in franchise history. His performance in the Eastern Conference Finals, especially the legendary 48-point game against the Detroit Pistons, was one for the ages. Even though the Cavs were swept by the San Antonio Spurs in the Finals, getting to that point was a massive achievement for both LeBron and the franchise.

This season was a turning point for LeBron’s career, proving he could lead a team deep into the playoffs. While the Finals loss was tough, it was clear that LeBron was ready to take the next step toward greatness.

13. 2013-14 NBA Season (Miami Heat)

Stats: 27.1 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 6.3 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements: All-Star, All-NBA First Team

LeBron’s final season with the Miami Heat was another dominant one. He averaged 27.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 6.3 assists, leading the Heat to a 54-28 record, good for second in the Eastern Conference. LeBron continued to perform at an elite level, earning another All-NBA First Team selection and All-Star appearance, while guiding the Heat to their fourth straight NBA Finals.

In the playoffs, LeBron did everything he could to push the Heat toward another title, but the San Antonio Spurs were on a mission. The Finals ended in five games, with the Spurs avenging their loss from the previous year. Despite the loss, LeBron had another great series, but it wasn’t enough to carry the Heat to a third straight championship.

This season marked the end of the Miami "Big Three" era, as LeBron would return to the Cavaliers after the Finals. While the Heat didn’t win it all, LeBron’s time in Miami cemented his legacy as one of the game’s greatest players.

14. 2019-20 NBA Season (Los Angeles Lakers)

Stats: 25.3 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 10.2 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements: NBA Champion, Finals MVP, All-Star, All-NBA First Team, Assists Leader

The 2019-20 season was a major comeback for LeBron, both personally and for the Lakers franchise. He averaged 25.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and led the league in assists with 10.2 per game, guiding the Lakers to a 52-19 record and the top seed in the Western Conference. LeBron made the All-NBA First Team again and continued to show why he’s one of the best in the game, even in his 17th season.

The playoffs were held in the bubble due to the pandemic, and LeBron stepped up once again, leading the Lakers to the NBA Finals. They defeated the Miami Heat in six games, and LeBron earned his fourth Finals MVP, solidifying his legacy with another championship in a different team. His leadership and ability to take over games were on full display throughout the bubble run.

This season was huge for LeBron, proving he could still dominate the league at 35 years old and bring the Lakers their 17th NBA title, inserting himself as one of the best players in franchise history. It’s one of the most impressive seasons of his career, especially considering the circumstances.

15. 2021-22 NBA Season (Los Angeles Lakers)

Stats: 30.3 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 6.2 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Achievements: All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

The 2021-22 season was a huge one for LeBron individually, but it didn’t translate into team success for the Lakers. At age 37, LeBron averaged an incredible 30.3 points per game, his highest scoring average since 2005-06. He also chipped in 8.2 rebounds and 6.2 assists, putting up numbers that seemed unreal for someone in his 19th season. Amid his dominant performances, the Lakers struggled mightily, finishing with a disappointing 33-49 record and missing the playoffs entirely.

LeBron played in 56 games due to injuries, but when he was on the court, he was still one of the most unstoppable players in the league. He was named to the All-NBA Third Team, but the Lakers couldn’t find any rhythm, even with the addition of Russell Westbrook and Anthony Davis also missing significant time.

While the team’s results were rough, LeBron’s ability to put up MVP-level numbers in his 19th season was nothing short of remarkable. This season proved that even with Father Time creeping up, LeBron still had plenty left in the tank individually.

16. 2020-21 NBA Season (Los Angeles Lakers)

Stats: 25.0 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 7.8 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements: All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

The 2020-21 season saw LeBron and the Lakers coming off their championship high from the previous year, but this season was filled with challenges. LeBron still put up solid numbers, averaging 25.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 7.8 assists, while the Lakers posted a 42-30 record in a shortened season due to COVID-19. Even with his strong individual play, LeBron missed time due to injury, which affected the Lakers’ seeding in the playoffs.

The Lakers entered the playoffs as the seventh seed, and LeBron and company struggled to find their rhythm. They were eliminated in the first round by the Phoenix Suns in six games, marking the first time LeBron had been knocked out in the first round in his career.

While this season wasn’t as successful as others, LeBron’s numbers and leadership remained strong. The injuries and a tough playoff matchup ultimately made this season a forgettable one for LeBron and the Lakers.

17. 2022-23 NBA Season (Los Angeles Lakers)

Stats: 28.9 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 6.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements: All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

The 2022-23 season was another impressive year for LeBron, despite dealing with injuries. At 38 years old, he still averaged 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 6.8 assists, continuing to show that age hadn’t slowed him down much. The Lakers had a slow start to the season but managed to turn things around after making key trades and finished with a 43-39 record, securing a playoff spot through the play-in tournament.

In the playoffs, LeBron led the Lakers on a surprising run to the Western Conference Finals, where they faced the Denver Nuggets. The Lakers were swept in four games by the eventual NBA champions, but LeBron had strong performances throughout the playoffs, including a 40-point effort in the final game. Even though the Lakers fell short, LeBron’s ability to compete at a high level was still impressive.

The 2022-23 season showed that LeBron could still be a major force on the court, even in his 20th season. His individual numbers remained elite, and the Lakers’ deep playoff run was a testament to his leadership and ability to elevate his game when it mattered.

18. 2004-05 NBA Season (Cleveland Cavaliers)

Stats: 27.2 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 7.2 APG, 2.2 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements: All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

In just his second season in the league, LeBron took another big leap forward, averaging 27.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game. He also led the league in minutes played and was named an All-Star for the first time, establishing himself as one of the brightest young stars in the NBA. LeBron was also named to the All-NBA Second Team, showing that he was already considered one of the best players in the league.

Against LeBron’s efforts, the Cavaliers missed the playoffs with a 42-40 record, which led to some frustration within the organization. While the team struggled to find consistency, LeBron’s individual performances were the highlight of the season, and it became clear that he was on the path to greatness.

Even though the Cavs didn’t make the postseason, this year further solidified LeBron as the centerpiece of the franchise and showed that he was capable of carrying a huge load on the court.

19. 2023-24 NBA Season (Los Angeles Lakers)

Stats: 25.7 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 8.3 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements: All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

LeBron continued to defy time in his 21st season, averaging 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game over 71 regular-season appearances. The Lakers finished with a 47-35 record, placing 7th in the Western Conference. LeBron also led the team in assists and steals, earning yet another All-NBA selection, this time on the Third Team.

In the playoffs, the Lakers had a short run, facing the Denver Nuggets in the first round. They were eliminated in a 5-game series, losing 4-1. Although the playoff outcome wasn't ideal, LeBron’s numbers were still impressive, maintaining elite play throughout the season.

20. 2003-04 NBA Season (Cleveland Cavaliers)

Stats: 20.9 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 5.9 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements: Rookie of the Year, All-Rookie First Team

LeBron’s rookie season with the Cavaliers showed early signs of greatness. At just 19 years old, LeBron averaged 20.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists over 79 games. He won the Rookie of the Year award and was named to the All-Rookie First Team, setting the tone for a legendary career. The Cavs, however, struggled during the season, finishing with a 35-47 record, missing the playoffs.

Despite the team’s struggles, LeBron’s rookie campaign proved that he was already one of the most exciting young players in the NBA. His versatility and ability to impact the game in multiple ways were on full display, and he quickly became the face of the Cavaliers’ future.

21. 2018-19 NBA Season (Los Angeles Lakers)

Stats: 27.4 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 8.3 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements: All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

LeBron’s first season with the Lakers came with big expectations, but it turned out to be a challenging year. He averaged 27.4 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 8.3 assists, proving that he was still an elite player. An unfortunate groin injury forced him to miss 27 games, which affected the team’s performance and chemistry.

The Lakers finished the season with a 37-45 record, missing the playoffs. This marked the first time in over a decade that a LeBron-led team didn’t make the postseason. Even with the team’s struggles, LeBron earned All-Star honors and was named to the All-NBA Third Team, showing his impact on the court remained significant.

Although this season didn’t meet expectations, it laid the groundwork for the Lakers' future moves that eventually led to a championship next season with Anthony Davis’ arrival.