LeBron James made a decision that perfectly encapsulated his legendary career on Thursday night in Toronto. With a chance to extend his record streak of consecutive games with 10+ points, the Los Angeles Lakers star instead made the unselfish pass, setting up Rui Hachimura for a game-winning buzzer-beater against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena.
The End of a Historic Streak
The assist sealed a Lakers victory but also ended one of the most remarkable individual runs in NBA history. James had scored at least 10 points in 1,297 straight games, a record that began when he was a teenager fresh out of high school in 2003. Against the Raptors, he finished with just 8 points.
When asked post-game if he had any second thoughts about the play that ended the streak, James was characteristically team-focused. "None. We won," he stated simply. He elaborated on his lifelong basketball philosophy, which prioritizes making the correct play over personal statistics.
"Just playing the game the right way, you always make the right play," James explained. "That's been my MO, that's the way I was taught the game. Done that my whole career." He broke down the decisive moment, noting the Raptors' double-team on Austin Reaves (who scored 44 points) created a four-on-three advantage. His job was to "put the ball on time, on target" to the open man.
Responding to 'Foolish' Criticism
James has faced criticism throughout his career for his unselfish play in clutch moments, a narrative he finds baffling. He confirmed he remembers every negative comment made about his game.
"That aspect was always one of the most foolish things I've ever heard, as far as making the right pass, making the right play," James said. "We are in the business of winning basketball games. My whole life I've just played the game that way... and I've won at every single level I've played at by playing the game that way."
He remains steadfast in his belief that basketball intelligence and team play trump individual glory, a principle that has delivered four NBA championships.
Finding Rhythm and Appreciating Toronto
The game was only James's sixth of the season after missing time with a back issue, causing him to miss an entire training camp and preseason for the first time in his career. While acknowledging he's still finding his rhythm, he contributed 11 assists with zero turnovers and made a key defensive stop late in the game.
James also took time to praise the Toronto fans, who have consistently supported him during his visits over two decades. "They're amazing. I love it," he gushed. "I don't know how many games I have left here in this building, but these fans are unbelievable. This city is unbelievable. Always welcome me with open arms... Man, they're one of a kind."
He also complimented Raptors forward Brandon Ingram, a former teammate during James's first season with the Lakers. "BI's an unbelievable talent... He's a seasoned vet now," James said of Ingram, who had 20 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists. "Super mature now, his game is mature, he's getting better and better. I love to see him thrive."
The night in Toronto was a testament to the enduring legacy of LeBron James: a player defined not just by historic scoring, but by an unwavering commitment to winning plays and a deep respect for the game and its fans.
