The Los Angeles Lakers entered their Wednesday night matchup against the Indiana Pacers looking to snap their losing streak and strengthen their playoff position in the Western Conference standings. Holding a 43-28 record and sitting as the fifth seed entering Wednesday, the Lakers aimed to rely on their superstar duo of LeBron James and Luka Doncic to secure a much-needed victory.
Doncic delivered early, leading the Lakers with 19 points, three rebounds, and two assists as they built a commanding 68-55 halftime lead. However, James struggled significantly, finishing the first half with just two points, five rebounds, and three assists, while shooting a disappointing 0-for-5 from the field.
The performance marked a rare low point in James' legendary career-it was just the fifth time ever that he failed to make a field goal in the first half of a game, and the first time since 2010.
This unfortunate personal history for James was revealed by StatMamba on X.
LeBron James didn't make a shot in the first half.
It's just the 5th time in his entire career that he has failed to do so - and the first since 2010. pic.twitter.com/3jra1dIcyd
— StatMamba (@StatMamba) March 27, 2025
Since returning from a groin injury, James has been in a noticeable shooting slump, which could be a growing concern for the Lakers. Prior to Wednesday's game, he had also struggled in LA's loss to the Orlando Magic, failing to make a 3-point field goal.
Despite this recent dip in form, James remains one of the Lakers' most important offensive weapons. The 22-year veteran is still averaging 24.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 8.4 assists, while shooting an efficient 51.6% from the field this season.
With the playoffs approaching, the Lakers will hope James can rediscover the dominant form that helped them win eight straight games just a few weeks ago. His ability to bounce back will be crucial as LA looks to make a deep postseason run.
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This story was originally published March 26, 2025 at 9:28 PM.