Even after 21 dominant seasons, ‘The King’ is still chasing perfection.
Speaking openly on his podcast, LeBron James revealed a surprising weakness even after two decades at the top of the NBA. While talking with Kevin Durant and Steve Nash on Mind the Game, the Lakers star admitted there’s one move he’s still never fully mastered: the mid-range jumper going to his right.
“To be honest, it’s something I haven’t been able to master in my career,” LeBron admitted. “I work on it, improved, yeah—but going right has always been a little [off]. Sometimes my balance is off. Sometimes, I don’t know if I should fade or go straight up and down.”
Mid-Range Truth from One of the Game’s Greatest
It’s a rare confession from one of the most well-rounded players in NBA history. The four-time MVP and 21-time All-NBA selection said he feels confident going left, but struggles with rhythm, elevation, and shot selection going right—even after decades of work.
“Going left with my middy, I feel really effective. I got great balance. I can go straight up, I can fade, all the power is over there,” James said.
“Going right? It’s always kinda f***ed with me mentally, even though I work on all of them.”
Shoutout to Chris Paul
LeBron even gave Chris Paul props as the gold standard of right-hand mid-range footwork and control.
“The one person that is unbelievable going right with his pocket… is Chris Paul. He can shoot it from the triple threat or off the dribble. He keeps it tight.”
That concept of “pocket”, the sweet spot for balance, rhythm, and release, is something James still studies, showing the mentality that’s kept him elite for over two decades.
Still Evolving at 40
The irony? LeBron’s mid-range numbers actually improved last season. He shot 43.6% from mid-range, including a career-best 50.0% from 10–16 feet. It was up nearly 11% from the year before. His shooting evolution continues, even in Year 21.
He also averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists on 51.8% shooting overall, including 37.6% from deep. These are elite numbers for any player, let alone one nearing age 40.
Mastering the Mind Game
During the episode, James was joined by Kevin Durant and Steve Nash, with KD praising LeBron’s evolution as a mid-range shooter. But James admitted he’s still learning when to go straight up or fade, especially going right, and that even tiny decisions can throw him off rhythm.
“Do you feel like if you take mid-range, you settle?” Nash asked.
“Yeah, for sure,” LeBron responded.
That level of honesty, paired with elite production, is exactly what makes LeBron James both relatable and legendary. He might not have mastered everything, but he’s still pushing to get there.