TORONTO — LeBron James walked out of Scotiabank Arena on Dec. 4, 2025 with a victory and a message of respect for several of his former teammates, led by Brandon Ingram.
The Los Angeles Lakers forward struggled from the field but delivered the decisive play, finding Rui Hachimura for a corner three that sealed a win over the Toronto Raptors. The assist snapped James’ historic run of consecutive double-digit scoring games, yet he said the streak’s end meant little compared to the result.
Respect for Ingram’s Development
Ingram, who finished with 20 points against his former club, spent James’ first season in Los Angeles as part of the much-talked-about “Baby Lakers” core. After the game, James praised the 28-year-old wing and several other ex-teammates.
“He’s an unbelievable talent,” James said. “I had him in my first year in L.A. and he was a young stud then. A seasoned vet now. His game has matured. He’s gotten better and better, and I love to see him thrive.”
James extended that sentiment to Alex Caruso, Lonzo Ball, Josh Hart and Ivica Zubac, players who likewise shared the 2018-19 locker room with him before being moved in subsequent roster overhauls.
Paths Since the 2018-19 Season
Los Angeles missed the playoffs in James’ debut season with the franchise, but the young core learned under the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Ingram was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in the 2019 deal for Anthony Davis and earned his first All-Star appearance a year later. Now healthy, he has taken a key role on a Toronto team that has surprised early in the 2025-26 campaign.
Meanwhile, James remains focused on chasing another championship in his 23rd season. Although his scoring streak ended, first-year head coach JJ Redick credited the 40-year-old for prioritizing the right play. “The basketball gods rewarded him for that pass,” Redick said.
James and the Lakers continue their six-game road trip later this week.
Source: LakersNation
