The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Toronto Raptors 123-120 on Thursday night, but LeBron James’ streak of scoring ten-plus points ended at 1,297 games. It started on Jan. 6, 2007, and lasted for more than 18 years. The incredible feat is just a footnote in King James' legacy, and he did not care that it was finally over.
James finished with eight points, 11 assists, and six rebounds in the win. He shot just four of 17 from the floor and failed to get to the free-throw line. Austin Reaves carried the Lakers with 44 points, and Rui Hachimura hit the game-winner at the buzzer. Luka Doncic did not play, but Los Angeles still won.
James has always made the right play and tried to win the game. He had plenty of cracks at scoring another bucket, but couldn’t get a shot to fall. It should come as no surprise that LeBron made the right play to seal the victory, and fans won’t be shocked by his comments about it.
LeBron James was happy the Lakers won after his streak ended
King James was asked in the postgame press conference directly about passing up a chance to keep the streak going to dish out the game-winning assist. Fans can read his response below.
“Just playing the game the right way. You always make the right play. That has just been my MO. That is how I was taught the game. I’ve done that my whole career. There is not even one second guess in that. Once they doubled AR and the ball got swung to me, I know it is a numbers game. We got a four-on-three advantage. I was trying to put the ball on time, on target, right in Rui’s shot pocket, and he knocked it down.”
This should be no surprise. LeBron has long been criticized for making the right play over chasing personal glory. He found an open teammate and helped the Lakers win the game. There should be zero complaints from fans or the media.
When questioned on his emotions about the steak ending, LeBron stated the obvious.
“None. We won.”
Lakers fans know the GOAT wants to win at this stage of his career. His cryptic remarks during his opt-in made that clear. James wants a fifth championship ring, and the Lakers are proving to be serious contenders. He cannot and will not put himself ahead of the team.
LeBron is looking his age for the first time ever. He barely got to ten points against the Suns and only scored eight in Toronto.
James is averaging 14.0 points, 7.8 assists, 4.3 rebounds, and 0.7 steals in 32.9 minutes per game after six contests. He missed all of training camp and the start of the season with a sciatica nerve issue. James certainly hasn’t found his shot as he has connected on 41.3 percent from the field and just 25.9 percent of his threes.
LeBron turns 41 later this month. The Lakers have put him in a perfect position to do less. Luka Doncic is one of the three best players in the world, and Austin Reaves is having a superstar breakout. King James can be the number three option and an elite table setter for the Lakers' star duo.
LeBron James did not care that his streak ended because Los Angeles went on the road and picked up a difficult win in Toronto. The Raptors sit third in the East and had won ten of their last 12. That was no easy victory, especially with Luka out and LeBron struggling to make shots.
It was just further proof that the Los Angeles Lakers can beat anyone. LeBron James doesn’t have to worry about the streak anymore. It was unbelievable, but the focus can shift fully to getting the Lakers into title contention. They are 16-5 and second in the crowded West. LeBron is playing the perfect role, and Los Angeles is dangerous. Discount them at your own risk.