Three ways LeBron James made history with his 48-point display vs. Houston Rockets
LeBron James
© Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
LeBron James turned back the hands of time against the Houston Rockets two nights ago in a performance that rewrote the record books.
The Los Angeles Lakers superstar put on a show in front of a packed house inside Crypto.com Arena, dazzling for 48 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists as the purple and gold held on for a 140-132 victory.
James’ performance etched his name into NBA folklore yet again, as he became just the 2nd player ever with multiple 45-point games at the age of 38 or older, joining Chicago Bulls icon Michael Jordan in the process.
It didn’t end there, however, as James became the outright leader in league history for games with at least 40 points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds at 38 years old or older.
On a personal front, it was the most points he has scored in a game without a turnover in his illustrious career despite handling the ball for the majority of the contest.
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Willing the Lakers
His display was even more impressive, considering it was on the second night of a back-to-back following a physical and exhausting battle with the Philadelphia 76ers just 24 hours prior.
The four-time MVP was questionable before the games against the Rockets with foot soreness but stated postgame he wanted to get the bitter taste of the loss against the Sixers out of his mouth as soon as possible.
Luckily he did, as the Lakers held on against a young and energetic Rockets team that wouldn’t lie down on the evening. The Lakers needed every point James put up, especially down the stretch, with an array of buckets and clutch free-throw shooting to put the game to bed.
He’s far from done
In the month of January, “The King” is averaging an astounding 35.3 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 8.5 assists on 53% shooting. He is currently leading the entire league in fourth-quarter scoring in year 20 and is on pace to claim the NBA’s all-time scoring record over the next 10 to 12 games.
With his 48 points against the Rockets, LeBron now has a 40-plus point game against every NBA franchise except the L.A. Clippers – who the Lakers face next Tuesday.
No doubt the NBA world will be tuning in to see if James can hang a 40-piece on his cross-town rivals in another historic showing as the small forward continues to put father time on hold.
