LeBron James’ Record 1,297-Game Double-Digit Scoring Streak Ends, But He Delivers Winning Assist in Lakers’ Victory Over Raptors

TORONTO (AP) — The longest streak of double-digit scoring in NBA history came to an unexpected end for LeBron James on Thursday night. But even in a game where his scoring was limited, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar proved why he’s considered one of the greatest to ever play the game.

James, held to just eight points in the Lakers’ 123-120 victory over the Toronto Raptors, saw his remarkable 1,297-game streak of consecutive double-digit scoring efforts come to an end. Yet, despite the milestone loss, he finished the game with the most important stat: the game-winning assist.

With the game tied and only seconds remaining, James passed the ball to Rui Hachimura, who drained a 3-pointer as time expired, securing the Lakers’ win. When asked about the streak’s end after the game, James was straightforward and unbothered.

“None,” he said when asked what he thought about the streak ending. “We won.”

The Streak Ends, But the Playoff Push Continues

The night was filled with a mixture of historic significance and raw emotion. James had been aware of the streak’s fragility throughout the game. With 5:23 left on the clock, the outcome of the game — and his streak — was still very much up in the air. By that point, James had just six points on 3-of-15 shooting, and the pressure to extend the streak was palpable.

But rather than forcing a shot to reach double digits, James made a decision that spoke volumes about his basketball IQ and leadership. With just under two minutes left, he scored to tie the game at 120, but missed a 14-footer with 1:01 left that would have kept the streak alive. He could have attempted another shot, but instead, he passed the ball to Hachimura for the winning 3-pointer.

“I always just make the right play. That’s automatic, win, lose or draw,” James explained. “You make the right play, the game gods are always giving back to me.”

A Historic Streak

James’ streak of double-digit games started back on January 6, 2007 — a run that spanned nearly two decades. Over 1,297 games, he averaged at least 10 points per contest, far surpassing the previous record set by Michael Jordan (866 consecutive games). Kareem Abdul-Jabbar had 787, and Karl Malone’s 575 consecutive double-digit scoring games rounded out the top four.

The streak has been an afterthought for years, as James routinely reached double digits long before the fourth quarter. But with his recent games showing a few signs of wear, the streak appeared to be in jeopardy, especially after he had nine points heading into the fourth quarter against Dallas on Nov. 28, and only six points heading into the fourth against Phoenix earlier this week.

However, true to form, James didn’t fret. He focused on the game, and when it mattered most, he chose the unselfish route. His decision to pass the ball to Hachimura — a decision that ended up winning the game — speaks to the heart of what makes LeBron James unique as a player.

A Lesson in Unselfishness

Lakers head coach JJ Redick acknowledged the mental fortitude James displayed in the face of such a historic achievement slipping away. “LeBron is acutely aware of how many points he has at that point,” Redick said. “He did it like he’s done so many times.”

Lakers center Jake LaRavia also praised James for his selflessness. “He’s such an unselfish player,” LaRavia said. “He’s just playing the game of basketball. He had the opportunity, but because of the player he is and just who he is as a person, he made the unselfish play, passed it to Rui and we won the game.”

Despite his personal record streak coming to an end, James left Toronto with a sense of accomplishment. “Just playing the game the right way. You always make the right play,” he said. “That’s just been my M.O. That’s how I was taught the game. I’ve done that my whole career.”

The Road Ahead

As the Lakers continue their playoff push, LeBron James’ performance on Thursday night only solidified his legacy as one of the most unselfish, high-IQ players in the game. While his 1,297-game streak may have ended, his willingness to sacrifice personal glory for the team’s success is a reminder that even the greatest players put the game above all else.

For the Lakers, this victory — coupled with James’ leadership — might just be the spark they need as the season progresses. With the win, the Lakers improve their playoff position, and James’ commitment to making the right play remains unwavering, regardless of personal records or accolades.

Final Score:

Los Angeles Lakers 123, Toronto Raptors 120