LeBron James Uplifts Lakers Fans with Performance vs. Blazers with Anthony Davis Out

With no Anthony Davis against the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday, LeBron James stepped up for the Los Angeles Lakers.

In his second game as a 40-year-old, James looked more like the younger version of himself that was an MVP candidate year in and year out. The star had 27 points heading into the fourth quarter, leading the way for the Lakers as they looked to make it six wins in their last eight games.

James was especially hot from deep, hitting six of his first eight attempts on his way to the big scoring night. The Lakers will need him to continue finding his shot from range if they want to compete for a championship this year.

After the dominant game from James, fans praised him for continuing to play at a high level this far into his career.

James, in his 22nd season in the NBA, has digressed in his athleticism over the years, which makes sense given his age, but he's continued to add to his game and keep Los Angeles in the mix. He's averaging 23.4 points, 8.9 assists and 7.7 boards per game this year.

If the Lakers can get performances like Thursday's from James once Davis is back on the court, they could emerge as Finals contender.