LeBron James Says Ending of Double-Digit Scoring Streak Was ‘Perfect’
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LeBron James’ record run of 1,297 consecutive regular-season games with at least 10 points came to an end Thursday night, yet the Los Angeles Lakers forward called the finish “the perfect way” for it to conclude.
James scored eight points on 4-of-17 shooting, adding six rebounds and 11 assists, in the Lakers’ 123-120 victory over the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena. With the score tied at 120 in the final seconds, Austin Reaves delivered the ball to James, who immediately faced a double-team and kicked it out to an unguarded Rui Hachimura for a buzzer-beating three-pointer.
“This is the best way,” James told The Athletic after the game. “If it had to end, the perfect ending for the streak is tonight. It’s literally who I am.”
The last time James failed to reach double digits in a regular-season contest was on Jan. 5, 2007, when George W. Bush was president and the first iPhone had just been unveiled. Earlier this week against the Phoenix Suns, the 20-time All-Star remained on the floor during a lopsided fourth quarter to push the streak to 1,297 games—a mark widely considered untouchable—before it stopped in Toronto.
Despite being the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, James reiterated that piling up points has never been his primary objective. “Being an all-time leading scorer was never a goal,” he said. “I wanted to lead the league in assists, make multiple All-Star teams, win MVPs. Starting a streak back in ’07? No one sets that as a goal. I just go out and play, and the game gives back.”
The Lakers improved to 16-5, opening a four-game road trip with the victory. For James, the result mattered more than the streak. “It’s always been about: How can I win the game? How can I make the right play and win the game? Tonight, that’s exactly what happened,” he said.
Source: LakersNation.com
