Skip Bayless gives "greatest gift" to LeBron James on 40th birthday - "Dozens of roses without a single thorn"

LA Lakers superstar forward LeBron James turned 40 on Monday, marking another testament to his longevity amid his illustrious 22-year NBA career. Many celebrated the 20-time All-Star's milestone throughout the day, including arguably his most renowned critic, Skip Bayless.

Bayless has frequently drawn attention to James' faults over the years, from his free-throw shooting to his clutchness to his early career playoff flameouts. He has also often challenged the four-time MVP's GOAT case despite him widely being regarded as a top-two player ever.

However, the longtime analyst took the high road during James' big day, pointing out the positives in his game, while neglecting to take any subtle digs.

"Happy 40th birthday, LeBron Raymone James Sr.," Bayless said on "The Skip Bayless Show." "Today, the greatest gift I can give you is just dozens of roses without a single thorn. All compliments without a single criticism."

Bayless began by praising James' offensive versatility as an elite passer and all-time great at-rim finisher.

"Bron, you are still the best passer in basketball at age 40," Bayless said. "... You're also the greatest basket attacker ever. I have never ever seen anything like your ability to play bully ball, even at age 40. You're the greatest combination of force and finesse that I've ever seen."

Afterward, Bayless commended the NBA's all-time leader in minutes played (57,578) for his unprecedented durability.

"You are simply the most durable superstar athlete ever," Bayless said. "You've had no knee surgeries, no shoulder surgeries, no Achilles issues. You are the durability freak. ... If the ultimate ability is durability, you are the king."

Bayless concluded by "saluting" James, quipping that he would "bite his tongue" all day to ensure he remained complimentary.

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LeBron James set to make NBA history after turning 40

LeBron James is set to become just the 32nd player to suit up in an NBA regular-season or playoff game after turning 40. However, he will also achieve an even rarer feat in his next outing.

Per The Associated Press, the 2003 No. 1 NBA draft pick will "become the first player in NBA history to appear in a game in his teens, 20s, 30s and 40s."

Meanwhile, unlike most 40-year-old players before him, James has maintained All-Star-caliber production. Through 28 appearances, he is averaging 23.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, 9.0 assists, 0.8 steals and 2.0 3-pointers per game, shooting 49.6%.

Given his production for his age, James is seemingly making it increasingly difficult for his detractors, like Skip Bayless, to pick apart his play.

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