LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers pulled off their second consecutive win after trading guard D’Angelo Russell at the end of December. On Friday night, the Lakers defeated Trae Young and the Atlanta Hawks 119-102 to secure their 20th win of the 2024-25 NBA season.
Newly acquired forward Dorrian Finney-Smith had his best night as a Laker, tallying eight points and five rebounds off the bench.
Coming into the game, James had recorded 562 games in his career with 30 or more points.
This was tied with Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan for the most in league history. At the 5:58 mark of the fourth quarter, James hit his final shot of the night, a 17-foot two-pointer to reach the 30-point mark.
In doing so, the four-time MVP passed Jordan for the most 30+ point games in NBA history. The Lakers announced James’ newest feat on X.
“Breaking records like a broken record. LeBron James passes Michael Jordan for MOST 30+ point games in NBA history.”
Breaking records like a broken record. LeBron James passes Michael Jordan for MOST 30+ point games in NBA history. pic.twitter.com/dkrGtuNnR3 — Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) January 4, 2025 Fans were left impressed with LeBron’s latest accomplishment, leaving their thoughts on the NBA’s post as well.
“Another All Time Record for LeGOAT,” one fan said. “GOAT FOR A REASON!!!” added another. “The king is truly unstoppable,” chimed in a third. However, other fans felt the need to bring up that Jordan was able to hold the record in nearly 500 fewer games. “Took LeBron 6 extra seasons. MJ was really impressive,” one fan wrote.
“Lebron did in 21 seasons what MJ did in 15 seasons,” said a second.
“It only took him almost 500 games more,” commented another. James finished the game with 30 points on 13-of-20 shooting, three rebounds and eight assists.
Austin Reaves added another 20 points on 6-of-18 shooting, seven rebounds and six assists. With the win, the Lakers jumped to 20-14 on the season.
They will hit the road for a two-game trip to Texas, starting with the Houston Rockets on Jan. 5 and ending with the Dallas Mavericks on Jan. 7.
