The 2018-19 NBA season has been a disappointing one for the Los Angeles Lakers. While it started with much fanfare, the basketball has not matched that level of excitement. Between injuries, roster construction and outside distractions, the Lakers are almost certainly out of the playoff race, a colossal failure after massive preseason expectations.
Despite the disappointment, however, the Lakers are still in an enviable position, mainly due to the fact that they still employ one LeBron James.
James’ injuries and defense left a sour taste in the mouths of Lakers fans but the superstar is still the best player in the world at full strength. On Wednesday, he reminded everyone of his position on the Mount Rushmore of NBA stars.
In the second quarter of the Lakers’ matchup against the Denver Nuggets, James reached 32,293 points for his career, surpassing Michael Jordan for fourth all-time in scoring.
James is now only behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone and Kobe Bryant. In doing so, he becomes the fourth Laker in the top four of the list.
LeBron accomplished this feat in his 1,190th career game, 118 more than Jordan. The two superstars have been named GOAT by most fans of the game, debated seemingly endlessly.
Barring major injury, LeBron should easily surpass Bryant for third all-time next season. With enough health and by keeping his scoring average high (above 25 points per game), James has an outside shot of catching Abdul-Jabbar for first all-time by the end of his contract with the Lakers.
It’s a remarkable accomplishment for James who most would not revere for his scoring ability first and foremost. It’s just another example of LeBron’s excellence in all facets, including his durability and consistency in a 16-year career.
