LeBron James’ historic run of averaging at least 25 points per game came to an end in the 2024–25 NBA regular season. After 20 straight years of elite scoring, the 40-year-old finished with 24.4 points per game for the Los Angeles Lakers, a mark he hadn’t dipped below since his rookie season in Cleveland.
This streak, unmatched in NBA history, no other player has maintained such high-level scoring for two straight decades, according to The Mirror US.
Even with that personal milestone behind him, James and the Lakers head into the Western Conference playoffs as the No. 3 seed. It’s a major statement, especially with J.J. Redick in his first year as head coach. James praised Redick for hitting the 50-win mark and guiding the team through a loaded Western Conference.
On Friday, King James wrote on X:
“Man, I was going to say something but it’s useless at this point in my career!” James tweeted. “Anyways more important CONGRATULATIONS JJ on a 50-win season in the WEST & Post Season nod! That’s [fire emojis].”
Man I was going to say something but it’s useless at this point in my career! Anyways more important CONGRATULATIONS JJ on a 50 win season in the WEST & Post Season nod! That’s 🔥🔥🔥🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🫡
— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 12, 2025
Fueling their title hopes is the addition of superstar Luka Doncic. His arrival gives the Lakers a serious championship boost. Guard Austin Reaves echoed that optimism.
With the postseason ahead, the Lakers look locked in, and loaded.
Lakers’ injury-riddled finale against Portland and playoff preparations
@Lakers are resting most of their key contributors on Sunday afternoons game in Portland. The Luxury of already locking up the 3rd seed pic.twitter.com/bFjpCYCLC6
— EricBMac (@TheEricBMac) April 13, 2025
The Los Angeles Lakers wrapped up their regular season with a solid 50-31 record, securing the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference despite injuries to key players.
They are set for the final game against the Portland Trail Blazers, managed to maintain their momentum despite a crowded injury report listing 18 players across both teams.
For the Lakers, absences included LeBron James (groin strain), Luka Doncic (quad soreness), and Austin Reaves (ankle sprain). Other sidelined players were Dorian Finney-Smith, Rui Hachimura, Maxi Kleber, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Gabe Vincent.
Despite these setbacks, the Lakers weren’t slow down, averaging 121.3 points and shooting 49.6% from the field in their last 10 games. The squad improved three-point shooting, with 13.4 makes per game, could be a decisive factor in the playoffs.
Portland, meanwhile, dealt with its own setbacks. Scoot Henderson (concussion protocol), Deni Avdija (thumb), Shaedon Sharpe (knee), Deandre Ayton, Jerami Grant, Anfernee Simons, and Robert Williams III were all either out or questionable.
The Blazers, despite going 3-7 in their final 10 games, showed strength on the glass, ranking second in the West with 13.2 offensive rebounds per game.
The Lakers await their first-round opponent, to be decided through the play-in tournament. With experience and talent on their side, they’ll aim to make a deep run in a loaded Western Conference.
READ: LeBron James Shakes Off Groin Scare as Lakers Clinch No. 3 Seed
I am a writer passionate about telling the stories behind the game of basketball. From the culture and personalities shaping the sport to the moments that define it, I explore basketball beyond the box score.
