LeBron James records his fourth consecutive triple-double in the Lakers’ 120-115 win over the Spurs, tying a franchise record.
Last year, LeBron James made NBA history when he was named MVP of the first in-season tournament. On Friday evening, as the Los Angeles Lakers began their tournament title defense, he made personal history again. James scored the Lakers’ final four points in a 120-115 group stage win over the San Antonio Spurs, finishing the game with 15 points, 16 rebounds and 12 assists. He achieved his fourth triple-double in a row – the longest streak of his 22-year career.
A special evening for LeBron
Although James himself said he “played like crap” and was “out of rhythm” after only taking 12 shot attempts and committing seven turnovers, he showed his versatility. “The best thing about my game is that I can have no rhythm offensively and still have an impact on the game,” James said. “I was able to do that tonight.” It was the 1,504th. regular season game of James’ career, tying him with John Stockton for the fifth-most games of all time. The 39-year-old star also surpassed 57,000 career minutes in the regular season.
Asked if he was more surprised that he surpassed his personal triple-double streak at this stage of his career or that it took so long, James replied, “Probably that I did it in Season 22.” With his 117th career triple-double, the fifth-most of all time, he showed he still has the energy and commitment to play at the highest level. “But it also takes great teammates along the way. These assists only happen when the guys hit their shots, and I just try to pass the ball on time and accurately.”
Lakers records
James tied the Lakers’ franchise record for consecutive triple-doubles, set by Russell Westbrook (Dec. 25-Dec. 31, 2021) and Magic Johnson (twice: March 28-Nov. 3, 1981 and March 31-Dec. 5, 1981). April 1987). Anthony Davis led LA with 40 points and 12 rebounds. Austin Reaves (19 points), Dalton Knecht (14 points), D’Angelo Russell (13 points) and Max Christie (11 points) also scored in double figures. “I think when Bron is in that mindset of dominating the game like that, it encourages everyone else to step up and make shots,” Reaves said.
Efficiency despite less possession of the ball
James is currently averaging 9.6 assists – the second-highest mark of his career and third-best in the NBA this season, behind only Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets (11.7) and Trae Young of the Atlanta Hawks (11.3). James pointed to his 27.2% usage rate, the lowest of his career. “The ball isn’t in my hands as much as it used to be,” he said. “But I’m still finding ways and my guys are finding ways to give me the ball and I can find them either in the half court or in early transition.”
Strategic adjustments under Coach Redick
Lakers coach JJ Redick praised James for being a role model for the team, particularly in physicality while rebounding – a goal of the coaching staff. 12 games into the 82-game season, with the Lakers in fifth place in the Western Conference at 8-4, James’ presence is making it easier for Redick to execute his game plan. “I think the biggest thing we’ve seen as a coaching staff is that it’s very easy to give him and AD the ball in the right spot as we continue to build the offensive system and the playcalling sheet,” Redick said .
