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After an incredible run, the legendary LeBron James’ streak of scoring at least 10 points per game has come to an end. The milestone was halted on Thursday when James scored just eight points during the Los Angeles Lakers’ thrilling 123-120 win against the Toronto Raptors.
Despite a chance to extend his scoring streak in the game’s final moments, James chose team success over personal accolades. He decisively passed to Lakers forward Rui Hachimura, who nailed a game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer, sealing the victory in Toronto.
Throughout the game, James struggled with his shooting, managing only 4-of-17 from the field and missing all five of his three-point attempts. However, he contributed significantly in other areas, posting six rebounds and 11 assists.
When reporters asked James about his thoughts on the streak ending, he remained unfazed and focused, offering a straightforward response to the media inquiry.
When asked by reporters about whether he had any negative thoughts after breaking the streak, James’ answer was simple.
“None. We won,” James said.
James’ streak dated back to Jan. 6, 2007, when a then-22-year-old James had an eight-point performance against the Bucks during his first stint with the Cavaliers.
The 1,297 consecutive games is the most of any player in NBA history, with Michael Jordan coming in second with 866 straight 10-point performances from 1986-2001. James, 40, broke Jordan’s record during the 2017-18 season during a game against the Pelicans.
James had previously run into multiple close calls before Thursday’s game, with the 21-time All-Star scoring just 10 points during the Lakers’ 125-108 loss to the Suns on Monday.
The streak also only counts games played in the regular season, with James having failed to reach 10 points in two playoff games since the streak began nearly 19 years ago.
James, who is currently in his 23rd NBA season, has shown signs of slowing down so far this year.
After missing the first three weeks of the season recovering from right side sciatica, James came into Thursday’s game averaging just 15.2 points, four rebounds and 7.2 assists through five games played.
Despite being in his age-41 season, James has yet to give any timeline for his retirement.
He did tell reporters in September, however, that he plans to step away from the game “sooner than later.”