Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James played an integral role in the franchise’s dominant 128-104 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Sunday.
James finished with 24 points, five assists, two steals, one rebound, and one block in 27 minutes. However, it was James’ play in Los Angeles’ 129-101 victory over the Golden State Warriors the day prior that stood out, as the four-time NBA champion broke an all-time Michael Jordan record in the process.
“LeBron James passes Michael Jordan as the oldest player (41) to have a half with 20+ points on 100% three-point shooting,” Real app stated on X/Twitter after the Lakers’ lopsided 28-point win.
It isn’t preposterous to suggest that James hasn’t had his best season with the Lakers this season. James’ on-and-off-ball defense is no longer a strong suit, and the 22-time All-Star has regressed as a perimeter shooter (32.0% three-point shooting percentage).
It also doesn’t help that sciatica postponed James’ season debut with the Lakers until late-November. That said, James is still a highly impactful tertiary playmaker, scoring option who will have his fair share of memorable moments on the hardwood.
The high-IQ veteran is averaging 21.6 points, 7.0 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per game this season in 42 contests with the Lakers.
Can Los Angeles win a title with James playing slightly below his usual standard? It’s unlikely, but time will tell if a championship is meant to be this season.
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