Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James put in another stunning performance despite his team lost to the Los Angeles Clippers for the 10th successive game.
While the Lakers have struggled for much of the 2022/23 season, James continues to perform and he put on another showcase on Tuesday night. The NBA icon scored 46 points and set a new personal record in three-pointers in a single game with nine.
James also broke two NBA records during the 133-115 defeat, as his epic scoring ensured he became the first player in NBA history to score at least 40 points against all 30 franchises. He also tied Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan for the most number of 45-point games.
The 38-year-old left it all out on the floor but, in a narrative that has become all too familiar for Lakers fans this season, couldn’t lead his dysfunctional team to a win. Clippers guard Paul George - who led his team in scoring with 27 - described James’ demeanour as ‘crazy’ as he relentlessly scored from all over the court.
“I’ve seen that look in Bron,” George said. “It was scary...it's just incredible. To be 38 [and score] 46 tonight. That is super impressive. To do it [for] 20 years, that's what stands out the most is just his longevity in his game and to be available.”
George added: “The league is his. Stand-up guy, been [an] amazing mentor, leader to a lot of us young guys, and he's been awesome. It's great that he'll be the scoring leader.”
George referenced James’ pursuit of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time points record as the four-time MVP sits just 178 points away from surpassing the Milwaukee Bucks and Lakers legend. James will undoubtedly hope his scoring will help push the Lakers up the standings and compete for a playoff berth in the Western Conference.
While his night ended on a sour note, James continues to prove that he is an unprecedented force of nature in his 20th season as he plays at an All-Star level while almost single-handedly keeping the Lakers in playoff contention. Clippers star Kawhi Leonard paid tribute to James and suggested he was an ‘inspiration’ for players around the NBA.
“I mean, [James is] one-of-one talent right there,” Leonard said. “You see it for yourself, the way he's playing at this age. Definitely inspirational for everyone, just to sustain that energy and that mindset to play that long and still wanting to go out and contribute with this effort.”
James and the 22-26 Lakers are next in action against the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night. The Spurs currently sit 14th in the west with a record of 14-33.
