LeBron James, the fourth-quarter king of the NBA

James' fourth-quarter exploits aren't exclusive to the ongoing season. The 40-year-old has consistently been one of the NBA's elite clutch performers in recent years. 

In 2023-24, he led the league in fourth-quarter PPG (8.1) and FGM (3.0) at a shooting clip of 54 percent in the final 12 minutes. 

In 2022-23, he finished third in fourth-quarter PPG (8.4) and third in assists (1.9). In 2021-22, he finished fourth in fourth-quarter PPG (8.0) and fourth in assists (1.8) at an efficient clip of 49 percent.

This season, James has also turned back the clock and turned into an above-average perimeter defender, especially in the fourth quarter. On Tuesday, for example, he did an admirable job checking Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson and stripped the ball from P.J. Washington in a critical possession in the fourth quarter. After the game, James was asked if he considers himself an All-Defensive-level player at age 40.

"Obviously, it's a collective thing," James said of the Lakers' improved defense. "I take that side of the floor very seriously. I take my matchups on the floor very seriously every single night. It's just individual pride for me. I just key in on my matchups and try to make it tough."

James' ability to shine in the clutch could be pivotal to the Lakers' chances in this year's playoffs. The team essentially has two players who shine under the brightest of lights; Luka Doncic being the other.