#lebron_james

LeBron James Weighs Next NBA Destination Amid Free Agency LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and 22-time All-Star, is currently in the final stages of deciding his next team after leaving the Los Angeles Lakers. The 41-year-old superstar, who officially informed the Lakers of his departure in late June, is an unrestricted free agent and has been in active discussions with multiple franchises. While the exact details of his decision remain private, insiders suggest he is nearing a choice, with several teams expressing interest in his services. James, who has spent the majority of his 23-season NBA career with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, is known for his meticulous approach to such decisions. A person with direct knowledge of the situation told USA TODAY Sports that James has received all necessary information from potential suitors and is now carefully evaluating his options. The individual spoke anonymously due to confidentiality agreements, emphasizing that the timeline for a final decision could be imminent. The free agent market has been abuzz with speculation about James’ potential destinations. Among the most frequently mentioned teams are the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers, Golden State Warriors, and Minnesota Timberwolves. The Cavaliers and Heat, in particular, hold special significance for James. He was selected first overall by Cleveland in 2003 and later helped the franchise win its first NBA title in 2016. Similarly, he led the Heat to two championships in 2012 and 2013 before joining the Lakers in 2018. James’ decision is driven by his desire to compete for another championship, a goal that has defined his career.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #cleveland_cavaliers #miami_heat #philadelphia_76ers

76ers Intensify Pursuit of LeBron James with Key Players Involvement As LeBron James' free agency decision extends into its second week, the Philadelphia 76ers have remained actively engaged in their pursuit of the four-time NBA champion, with three key players leading the effort. League sources confirmed to ESPN that Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Jaylen Brown have all been in communication with James, with Maxey playing a central role in the outreach. The 25-year-old Maxey, a fellow Klutch Sports client, has previously referred to James as a "big brother" and has trained with him during the offseason. Embiid, the 2022-23 league MVP, shared a historic connection with James, having teamed up to win a gold medal for Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Brown, who faced James in playoff battles during his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics, received an MVP endorsement from James in February. James praised Brown's performance, stating, "He's playing great basketball, man. This whole MVP thing, I don't understand why his name is not getting talked about some, as well. Like, nobody gave them a shot to start the season." James also highlighted his admiration for the Philadelphia fan base after scoring 12 of his 29 points in the fourth quarter during a December game against the Los Angeles Lakers. He remarked, "One thing you know about Philly fans, they don't care about anybody besides their home teams, and I respect and I love that. I've played here, for obviously 23 years, a lot more when I was in Eastern Conference. But to be able to have an appreciation for the City of Brotherly Love and for me to go out and still play the game that I love and them respect it, whatever the case may be -- if they do -- it's pretty cool.#jaylen_brown #lebron_james #philadelphia_76ers #tyrese_maxey #joel_embiid

Lakers Most Active in Jonathan Kuminga Free Agency Pursuit The Los Angeles Lakers are positioned as the most aggressive team in pursuing Jonathan Kuminga during the ongoing free agency period, according to recent reports. With significant roster changes following the departures of LeBron James and Rui Hachimura, the Lakers face a pressing need to address their wing depth. The team is seeking a high-impact player to fill the gap between their star backcourt of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves and their newly acquired big man, Walker Kessler. Kuminga, who struggled to find a market last summer after the Atlanta Hawks declined a $24.3 million team option on his contract, remains a key target for the Lakers. Despite limited interest from other teams, including the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns—both of which faced financial or roster constraints—the Lakers have taken the lead in negotiations. General manager Rob Pelinka reportedly reached out to Kuminga and his representatives early in free agency, even before the Lakers acquired Kessler and signed Sandro Mamukelashvili, Quentin Grimes, and Collin Sexton. Since securing those additions, the Lakers have continued to engage with Kuminga, emphasizing the potential for a starting role in a competitive lineup. The Lakers’ pitch to Kuminga centers on the opportunity to establish himself as a key contributor on a contender. While Kuminga may be cautious about committing immediately, the prospect of a starting role alongside Doncic and Reaves is a significant incentive. However, the Lakers’ offer is not yet compelling enough for Kuminga to finalize a decision, as he remains open to exploring other options.#lakers #lebron_james #atlanta_hawks #rob_pelinka #jonathan_kuminga

LeBron James' Free Agency: Rich Paul Lists Potential Teams LeBron James, now a free agent, has become the focus of NBA free agency as his agent, Rich Paul, openly discusses potential destinations for the 41-year-old superstar. Since James’ decision to leave the Los Angeles Lakers, Paul has been vocal about his client’s options, revealing a list of teams that could potentially welcome him in the upcoming season. The information emerged during a conversation on Paul’s “Game Over” podcast with Max Kellerman, where he used a whiteboard to outline possible teams. Among the names highlighted were the New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Denver Nuggets, Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors, San Antonio Spurs, and Dallas Mavericks. Paul also mentioned that the Knicks are among the teams that have checked in on James. Additionally, he noted that James would have definitely joined the Knicks had they not just won a championship. Paul’s approach has been to publicly discuss the teams interested in James, though he acknowledged that some names on the list may not yet have formal inquiries. The agent’s statements are part of his role in promoting James, even as the player’s legacy and performance make him an attractive option for nearly every contender. The list of teams Paul presented reflects the broader landscape of the league, where nearly every franchise is vying for a superstar’s attention. While the Knicks, 76ers, and Celtics are prominent names, the inclusion of teams like the Mavericks and Spurs shows that even mid-tier franchises are considering James as a potential game-changer. However, the focus remains on the top contenders, as these teams are more likely to offer the resources and competitive environment James seeks at this stage of his career.#boston_celtics #lebron_james #new_york_knicks #philadelphia_76ers #rich_paul

LeBron James Weighs Multiple Team Options as Free Agency Looms Three days after LeBron James confirmed he would not return to the Los Angeles Lakers, his agent, Rich Paul, emphasized that the Cleveland Cavaliers’ star has a wide array of choices and that the intrigue surrounding his decision is far from over. During an episode of his "Game Over" podcast with Max Kellerman, Paul outlined the potential destinations for James, detailing the unique factors each team brings to the table. The discussion, which included a whiteboard filled with team names, aimed to demystify the process for fans and highlight the complexities of James’ decision-making. Paul revealed that he has spoken to 27 teams about James, with the number continuing to grow as the free agency window expands. The factors influencing James’ choice are constantly shifting, as seen in the Philadelphia 76ers’ recent trade for Jaylen Brown. “Every day things change,” Paul said, noting that James now has the luxury of making a decision without the pressure of a championship chase. “He’s won already. This is strictly for his happiness.” The 76ers emerged as a strong contender, with Paul praising their roster and front office. The team features Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and V.J. Edgecombe, alongside newly acquired Jaylen Brown. Paul highlighted the chemistry between James and Maxey, who has trained with him during the summer, and the potential synergy with Embiid, who has maintained his health and habits. “He enhances everything there. He unlocks everything there,” Paul said, adding that the 76ers’ leadership, including managing partner Josh Harris and former Warriors GM Bob Myers, also plays a role in the appeal. Cleveland, referred to as “the C-town,” was another focal point.#lebron_james #cleveland_cavaliers #philadelphia_76ers #rich_paul #josh_harris

LeBron James leaving Lakers, reportedly plans to return for 24th NBA season with a new team LeBron James is set to leave the Los Angeles Lakers after the 2025-26 season, marking the end of his tenure with the franchise. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, James has informed the Lakers of his decision to seek a new team for the 2026-27 NBA season. The move dispels rumors that James might retire following the 2025-26 campaign at age 41. Prior to free agency, James met with Lakers president Rob Pelinka to discuss his decision, a gesture described as an act of courtesy and appreciation for their shared journey. Despite his age and the physical toll of years in the league, James remained a dominant force, averaging 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds in 60 games during the 2025 season. His leadership was pivotal as the Lakers navigated the playoffs, where he formed a formidable trio with Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. The trio propelled the Lakers to a No. 4 seed in the Western Conference, a testament to their collective impact. However, the Lakers’ playoff run was cut short in the second round, where they were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder. This loss came after Dončić and Reaves were sidelined, leaving James to carry the team through the first-round series against the Houston Rockets. The Lakers’ future now appears to be reshaped by the departure of key players. With Reaves moving to a new max contract and Dončić assuming a central role, the franchise is entering a new era. James’ absence will leave a significant void, as his ability to elevate teammates and secure victories has been a cornerstone of the Lakers’ success. Throughout his career, James has redefined the standards of excellence in the NBA.#shams_charania #lebron_james #luka_doncic #los_angeles_lakers #austin_reaves

LeBron James' potential move to the Golden State Warriors has taken a significant step forward after Draymond Green opted out of his 2026-2027 player option, creating a pathway for the Warriors to offer the superstar a $15 million nontaxpayer midlevel exception. This decision, announced on June 29, 2026, has sparked speculation about a potential reunion between James, Curry, and Green, though the deal remains contingent on several factors. Green’s opt-out, which he hinted at during a podcast in early April, allows the Warriors to reallocate cap space and pursue free agents. By declining his $27.6 million contract, Green has positioned himself to sign a multiyear deal with the Warriors at a lower salary, potentially aligning his compensation with the midlevel exception. This move is seen as a critical enabler for the Warriors to offer LeBron a contract that could be significantly less than what the Lakers might provide, though the exact terms remain uncertain. LeBron’s interest in joining the Warriors is tied to the team’s ability to meet specific conditions, including the acquisition of Anthony Davis. While the Warriors have not explicitly demanded Davis, NBA sources suggest that the trade of Jimmy Butler to the Wizards for Davis is a plausible scenario. However, this would require the Warriors to commit to a long-term extension for Davis, which could involve sacrificing draft picks or financial flexibility. The potential trade has raised concerns about the Warriors’ ability to balance their roster, particularly if they also pursue free agent Kristaps Porzingis, who was previously a key target. The Lakers remain a viable option for LeBron, as they could offer a higher salary than the Warriors’ midlevel exception.#lebron_james #golden_state_warriors #steve_kerr #draymond_green #klay_thompson

Supreme Court Declines to Hear Key Cases on Voting Rights, Environment, and Trademark Dispute The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to review several significant cases, including those involving voting rights, environmental regulations, and a high-profile trademark dispute tied to a company co-founded by NBA star LeBron James. The decisions, announced during the justices’ June 18 conference, reflect the court’s current priorities and its approach to cases that have drawn widespread public and legal attention. The court also requested the federal government’s input on additional matters, including a challenge to a state bar association’s leadership selection practices and an Oregon law requiring prescription drug manufacturers to disclose pricing information. The justices will hold their next scheduled conference on June 25, with orders expected to be released on June 29 at 9:30 a.m. EDT. The court’s decision to deny review in several cases without comment underscores its reluctance to engage with certain legal questions at this time. Among the cases dismissed were: RMS of Georgia v. EPA: A challenge to an Environmental Protection Agency rule mandating the phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons, a class of refrigerants commonly used in air conditioners and refrigerators. The court’s refusal to hear the case leaves the EPA’s regulation in place, pending further legal challenges. Arkansas United v. Thurston: A dispute over whether private individuals can enforce Section 208 of the Voting Rights Act, which allows voters with disabilities or literacy barriers to receive assistance. The case arose from a state law prohibiting non-election officials from helping more than six voters. The court’s denial of review means the lower court’s interpretation of the law remains valid. Game Plan v.#lebron_james #supreme_court #environmental_protection_agency #uninterrupted_ip #state_bar_association

Kevin Garnett Urges LeBron James to Conclude Career with Cleveland Cavaliers The NBA offseason has ignited speculation about LeBron James’ future, with the focus squarely on where the four-time champion will end his legendary career. While James is heavily linked to a potential return to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the likelihood of him re-signing with the Los Angeles Lakers remains high, as the Cavaliers face significant challenges in meeting his financial demands. However, former NBA great Kevin Garnett has publicly expressed his hope that James would choose to return to Cleveland, a move that would mark his third stint with the franchise and a fitting conclusion to his storied career. Garnett, who once faced off against James during their time in the NBA, has long been a vocal advocate for the idea of James returning to his hometown. During an interview on the Ticket & The Truth podcast with former Celtics teammate Paul Pierce, Garnett emphasized his belief that James should consider a return to Cleveland, even if it means accepting a pay cut. “If you’re doing a farewell tour and this is his last hurrah, I would like to see him in Cleveland. Take a pay cut, go back somewhere,” Garnett said. His comments underscore the emotional appeal of a homecoming for James, who spent his early NBA days with the Cavaliers before leaving for Miami and later the Lakers. The financial reality, however, presents a major hurdle. James, entering his 24th NBA season, is hitting unrestricted free agency after his $52.6 million contract with the Lakers expires. The Cavaliers, despite having the largest salary cap in the league, are unable to offer him the compensation he seeks. Instead, they could only provide a veteran’s minimum contract worth less than $4 million.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #cleveland_cavaliers #kevin_garnett #ticket_and_the_truth

Shaquille O’Neal Would Draft LeBron James Over Kobe Bryant First Overall Shaquille O’Neal, a former NBA star and current NBA analyst for ESPN, recently shared his perspective on the long-standing debate over who is the greatest basketball player of all time. While the discussion often pits Michael Jordan against LeBron James, O’Neal offered a unique take when asked hypothetically about drafting the best player in NBA history. The question, posed by Melissa Rohlin of The California Post, prompted O’Neal to reflect on his own legacy and the careers of other icons. O’Neal initially responded by stating he would choose himself, a natural choice given his own Hall of Fame career. However, when asked to name his top pick if he were not an option, he leaned toward LeBron James. “I’d probably go with Bron,” O’Neal said, referencing James by his nickname. “Bron had it when he came in,” he explained, contrasting James’ immediate impact with Kobe Bryant’s slower ascent. O’Neal noted that Bryant took two to three years to develop into a superstar, while James demonstrated elite skills from the moment he entered the league in 2003. This statement, while not declaring James the definitive GOAT, underscores O’Neal’s admiration for James’ career trajectory. James, drafted first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers, became an instant star, finishing in the top 10 of MVP voting in his rookie season and earning his first All-Star nod the following year. Over 23 seasons, James has remained a dominant force, consistently ranked among the league’s elite. Regardless of where one stands on the James-Jordan debate, there is no doubting that James has had the most impressive career and body of work in league history, and that taking him No. 1 overall would be the right choice.#lebron_james #cleveland_cavaliers #kobe_bryant #shaquille_oneal #time_magazine

Steph Curry's Potential Move to Golden State and LeBron James' Free Agency Outlook Reports indicate that Steph Curry is considering reaching out to LeBron James to explore a potential trade to the Golden State Warriors. While the idea of a reunion between the two stars has generated significant buzz, analysts highlight the numerous challenges that would need to be overcome for such a move to materialize. The Warriors, already facing financial constraints, would need to navigate complex salary cap issues, including the possibility of trading Jimmy Butler and his $56.8 million contract. Butler’s recent ACL injury further complicates this scenario, as his value to the team is diminished. Additionally, the second-apron restrictions in free agency would limit the Warriors’ ability to add depth to their roster, leaving them reliant on two aging stars—Curry, 38, and James, 41—who would need to carry the team in a playoff push. The Warriors’ pursuit of James is seen as a calculated risk, given their recent playoff struggles. A roster built around Curry and James would lack the defensive versatility and shooting depth that defined their 2022 championship run. Critics argue that both players have become more ball-dominant in their later careers, which could clog the court and reduce the space Curry needs to operate. This dynamic mirrors past failed attempts to build super-teams around aging stars, such as the 2012-13 Los Angeles Lakers and the 2013-14 Brooklyn Nets. While the Warriors’ 2016 acquisition of Kevin Durant demonstrated a willingness to invest in star power, the long-term success of such strategies has been inconsistent. LeBron James’ free agency situation is equally complex.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #golden_state_warriors #steph_curry #jimmy_butler

Cedric Coward Says Kevin Durant Has Become a Mentor: 'I Talk to Him a Lot' Memphis Grizzlies rookie Cedric Coward has described Kevin Durant as a mentor figure in his first NBA season, crediting the veteran forward for offering guidance and emphasizing the importance of persistence. Coward, the 11th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, shared his experiences with R.org, highlighting how Durant has become a frequent post-game confidant and source of wisdom. The two regularly exchange insights after games involving the Grizzlies and Durant’s team, with Coward expressing confidence that opportunities to learn from other stars like LeBron James and Stephen Curry will arise in the future. Coward’s relationship with Durant has centered on the theme of perseverance, a message he believes has been instrumental in his development. The 22-year-old forward, who averaged 13.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 62 games this season, noted that Durant’s perspective on the game has helped him navigate challenges. “Honestly, just keep going, no matter what happens,” Coward said. “No matter if you have frustrations with losing, good games or bad games, the work will show above everything.” He added that Durant’s enduring passion for basketball has been a key factor in his success, warning that losing love for the game can lead to decline. Coward, who has drawn comparisons to Kawhi Leonard and Jalen Williams for his shooting mechanics and defensive versatility, acknowledged the pressure of being likened to elite players. However, he stressed the importance of maintaining his individual identity while learning from the best. “There’s only one of each,” he said, referencing Leonard and Jalen Brown. “But at the same time, a lot of people will tell you that it’s a copycat league.#lebron_james #kevin_durant #memphis_grizzlies #stephen_curry #cedric_coward

LeBron James Compares Shai Gilgeous-Alexander To Giannis Antetokounmpo Following the Los Angeles Lakers’ second-round exit to the Oklahoma City Thunder, star LeBron James reflected on the four-game series, highlighting the challenges posed by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The Thunder’s MVP, known for his versatility and playmaking ability, had dominated the matchup, forcing the Lakers to adjust their defensive approach. Head coach JJ Redick implemented a game plan to contain Gilgeous-Alexander, but James acknowledged the difficulty of limiting his impact. James, speaking on his “Mind the Game” podcast, drew a direct comparison between Gilgeous-Alexander and Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, emphasizing the need for defenses to treat the Thunder guard with the same level of respect reserved for the two-time MVP. “If you don’t treat him with the same level of respect that you treat Giannis with… you’re going to get burned,” James said. He explained that while Gilgeous-Alexander lacks the physicality of Giannis—such as height, bulk, or downhill dominance—he compensates with technical skill and intelligence. The Lakers’ strategy of using multiple defenders to crowd Gilgeous-Alexander’s space initially worked, but it created opportunities for other Thunder players like Chet Holmgren, Alex Caruso, and Ajay Mitchell to thrive. James noted that while teams can limit Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring output, containing the Thunder’s supporting cast remains a challenge. “You have to treat him with Giannis-level respect in the open floor and account for him in the half court,” James said. “But you have to do that before he even gets started because he’s just that damn good.#lebron_james #jj_redick #oklahoma_city_thunder #giannis_antetokounmpo #shai_gilgeousalexander

Austin Reaves Sets the Record Straight on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's Biggest Criticism Over the past few years, Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has faced persistent criticism for his free-throw shooting, with critics labeling him as a "free-throw merchant" due to his high number of attempts. Despite statistical evidence contradicting this narrative, the label has persisted. However, ahead of the Thunder’s semifinal series against the Los Angeles Lakers, one of Gilgeous-Alexander’s primary rivals, Austin Reaves, has taken a public stance to challenge this perception. During a recent practice media session, Reaves addressed the topic of foul-drawing, acknowledging the difficulty of discussing it due to the tendency of fans to overemphasize the issue. When asked about Gilgeous-Alexander’s 9.0 free throw attempts per game during the regular season and 12.3 in the playoffs, Reaves attributed it to the player’s determination to win. “He wants to win and is gonna do whatever it takes to win,” Reaves said. “If it’s shoot 20 free throws, so be it.” This perspective marks Reaves as the latest prominent figure to reframe Gilgeous-Alexander’s foul-drawing ability as a strategic skill rather than an unethical act. Former NBA guard and analyst Lou Williams echoed this sentiment, explaining that defenses fear Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring potential, which drives their aggressive attempts to foul him. “That’s why [defenders] respect the head fake,” Williams noted, adding that their defensive strategies are a direct response to his threat. This analysis highlights how Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to draw fouls is a byproduct of his offensive prowess rather than a flaw.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #oklahoma_city_thunder #shai_gilgeousalexander #austin_reaves

Game 7s in NBA Playoff History: Stats, Legends, and Records The 2026 NBA Playoffs have brought three Eastern Conference First Round series to Game 7, continuing a tradition that dates back to the league’s earliest days. These matchups are steeped in history, with Game 7s often serving as the ultimate stage for dramatic comebacks, clutch performances, and defining moments in NBA lore. From the first Game 7 in 1948 to modern-day legends like LeBron James and Jayson Tatum, the NBA’s seventh games have produced unforgettable moments that shape the league’s narrative. As of the 2025 playoffs, a total of 155 Game 7s have been played in NBA history, with home teams holding a dominant 115-40 record (.742). This trend underscores the significance of home-court advantage, though road wins have been rare but impactful. For example, the 2024-25 season saw at least one Game 7 road winner, continuing a streak of 10 consecutive seasons with such victories. The Boston Celtics, with 37 Game 7s, lead all franchises, boasting a 27-10 (.730) record, while the Los Angeles Lakers (16-8, .667) and Philadelphia 76ers (6-12, .333) also figure prominently in the historical tally. Notable players have left indelible marks on Game 7s. Jayson Tatum’s 51-point performance against the 76ers in the 2023 Eastern Conference Semifinals remains the highest single-game total in a Game 7, while LeBron James holds the record for most points scored across all Game 7s with 279. Jerry West, with 278 points in nine Game 7s, is second, and Bill Russell’s perfect 10-0 record in Game 7s as a player is unmatched. In the NBA Finals, Jerry West’s 42-point Game 7 in 1969 still stands as the highest single-game total, and his triple-double in that series remains a rare feat. Coaches have also shaped Game 7 history.#boston_celtics #jayson_tatum #lebron_james #philadelphia_76ers #nba_playoffs

Ex-NBA Player Damon Jones Pleads Guilty in Major Gambling Case Involving Over 30 Arrests Former NBA player and assistant coach Damon Jones became the first individual to plead guilty in a high-profile gambling investigation that led to the arrest of more than 30 people, including organized crime figures and other basketball professionals. The plea, entered on Tuesday in Brooklyn federal court, marks a significant development in a case spanning nearly two years, during which prosecutors allege Jones conspired to defraud sports betting companies using insider information. Jones, 49, admitted to conspiring with others to commit wire fraud by leveraging nonpublic details about NBA player injuries. He acknowledged in court that his actions violated the NBA’s code of conduct and the terms of service of sports betting platforms. The conspiracy, which prosecutors claim ran from December 2022 to March 2024, involved sharing sensitive information about injuries to star players, such as LeBron James and Anthony Davis, to influence betting outcomes. Jones stated in a prepared statement that he sincerely apologized to the court, his family, peers, and the NBA for his actions. The charges against Jones include a single count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a sentencing guideline range of 21 to 27 months in prison. He is scheduled to be sentenced on January 6 before Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall. As part of his plea agreement, Jones must forfeit $35,000 and comply with strict conditions, including a ban on gambling, restrictions on associating with organized crime figures, and requiring court approval for bank transfers exceeding $10,000 unless for legal fees.#lebron_james #nba #anthony_davis #damon_jones #brooklyn_federal_court

NBA Play-Offs: LeBron James Helps Lakers Secure Overtime Victory and 3-0 Series Lead LeBron James made a three-pointer to force overtime before the Los Angeles Lakers moved to the brink of a series victory in the NBA play-offs. The NBA's four-time Most Valuable Player levelled the score with 13 seconds left against the Houston Rockets and almost clinched victory as he hit the rim with a three-pointer on the buzzer. But the Lakers went on to win 112-108 in overtime to claim a 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven first round of the play-offs. James, 41, again stepped up in the absence of the injured Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, claiming a team-high 29 points and 13 rebounds. Marcus Smart also recorded a double-double, scoring eight of his 21 points in overtime and adding a team-high 10 assists. "With two of our best players down, we've got to play desperate," said Smart. "We've got to be the most desperate team. That's how we've been playing, and that's how we're winning, right? The chemistry has been good, and you're starting to see guys' confidence go up because of that." An ankle sprain ruled out Houston's leading scorer Kevin Durant for the second time in the series. The Rockets also host game four on Sunday and must win to prevent the Lakers earning a sweep of the series and booking their place in the Western Conference semi-finals. Conference rivals San Antonio lead the Portland Trail Blazers 2-1 after fighting back to claim a 120-108 win on the road. Stephon Castle scored 33 points for the Spurs while rookie reserve Dylan Harper added career bests of 27 points and 10 rebounds. Victor Wembanyama was on the Spurs bench but could not play as this season's defensive player of the year remained in concussion protocol after suffering a head injury in game two on Tuesday.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #san_antonio_spurs #philadelphia_76ers #houston_rockets

Lakers Secure 3-0 Series Lead with 112-108 Victory Over Rockets in Overtime Thriller HOUSTON -- — LeBron James scored 29 points, including a tying 3-pointer with 13 seconds left in regulation, Marcus Smart had eight points in overtime, and the Los Angeles Lakers capitalized on a Houston Rockets team missing Kevin Durant for a 112-108 win Friday night to take a 3-0 lead in the Western Conference first-round series. The Lakers rallied from a six-point deficit with under 30 seconds remaining and can sweep the series Sunday night in Houston. The game’s momentum shifted dramatically in the final moments of regulation. With the Lakers trailing 101-95 and 25 seconds left, Smart was fouled on a 3-point attempt after a Houston turnover. He made all three free throws to tie the game at 101-all. James then stole the ball from Reed Sheppard and hit a 3-pointer to send the game into overtime. Houston’s Alperen Sengun missed a 7-footer, giving the Lakers possession, but James’ 3-point attempt bounced off the rim, forcing overtime. In overtime, the Lakers opened with a 6-2 run, highlighted by Smart’s 3-pointer to take a 107-103 lead. Smart added two free throws with 35.5 seconds remaining to make it 111-105. Houston’s Reed Sheppard cut the lead to three with a 3-pointer, but Smart sealed the victory with 1 of 2 free throws to push the lead to 112-108. James, who played more than 45 minutes, emphasized the challenges of the Lakers’ depleted roster. “Everyone has to do a little bit more because of how much we’re missing,” he said. “It’s a challenge for all of us and just trying to figure it out together.” The 41-year-old forward also added 13 rebounds, including an alley-oop pass to his son Bronny for a basket in the first half.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #houston_rockets #alperen_sengun #marcus_smart

Lakers Overcome Six-Point Deficit, Secure 3-0 Series Lead in Overtime Thriller Against Rockets HOUSTON -- Trailing by six points with just half a minute remaining in the fourth quarter, the Los Angeles Lakers appeared to have squandered their opportunity to clinch a 3-0 series advantage against the Houston Rockets. However, a dramatic late-game surge led by LeBron James and Marcus Smart turned the tide, culminating in an 112-108 overtime victory that extended the Lakers’ lead in their first-round NBA playoff series. The pivotal moment came when Smart stole a pass from Jabari Smith Jr. with 27.8 seconds left in regulation, immediately launching a three-point attempt that drew a foul on Jae'Sean Tate. The 12-year veteran made all three free throws, cutting Houston’s lead to two points. Smart, who finished with 21 points, 10 assists, and five steals, credited his experience for the play, stating, “My vet savvy. Been in the league for 12 years. I picked up some tricks.” James, the NBA’s all-time leader in playoff games (295) and seasons (23), delivered the game’s defining moment. Trapping Rockets guard Reed Sheppard in the backcourt, he forced a turnover, retrieved the ball, and hit a catch-and-shoot three-pointer with 13.6 seconds remaining to tie the game. The 41-year-old James, who played 45 minutes, added 29 points, 13 rebounds, six assists, and eight turnovers, emphasizing his importance to the team: “Listen, we came that far, so trying to see if I can make plays. Obviously my presence on the floor is key for our ballclub.” The Lakers outscored Houston 11-7 in overtime, with Smart contributing two crucial free throws with 52.4 seconds left. After grabbing an offensive rebound following a James miss, Smart sneaked behind Tari Eason and was fouled on a putback attempt.#lakers #lebron_james #rockets #marcus_smart #jajabari_smith_jr

LeBron James Enters 19th Playoff Run With Historic Career Stats LeBron James is set to begin his 19th postseason run as the Los Angeles Lakers face the Houston Rockets in the 2026 NBA Playoffs. This milestone marks a career defined by longevity, dominance, and a staggering array of records. To commemorate the occasion, here are 19 key statistics that highlight his unparalleled impact on the game. James now shares the NBA record for most playoff appearances with Karl Malone and John Stockton, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Tim Duncan’s 18. His 19 playoff runs exceed the combined totals of six franchises, including Orlando (18), Memphis (14), and Toronto (14). In the playoffs, he leads all players in scoring, with 8,289 points, and is the only player to reach 50,000 combined regular-season and playoff points (currently at 51,729). His ability to score in double figures 290 times, including 261 games with 20+ points, underscores his consistency. James also holds the record for most games played in NBA history, with 1,622 regular-season contests and 292 playoff games. He has faced 36% of all players in NBA history and is on track to reach 300 playoff games if the Lakers advance. His field goal totals are unmatched, with 15,961 regular-season makes and 8,229 in the playoffs. Beyond the rim, he ranks third in 3-pointers made during the postseason, with 480 beyond the arc. Minutes played further cement his legacy. James leads all players in regular-season minutes (61,029) and playoff minutes (12,062), equivalent to 42.38 days in the regular season and 8.38 days in the playoffs. His 12,016 career assists place him fourth in NBA history, trailing only Stockton, Jason Kidd, and Chris Paul. In the playoffs, his 2,095 assists rank second behind Magic Johnson.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #kareem_abdul_jabbar #houston_rockets #nba_playoffs