LeBron James becomes first NBA player to reach 50,000 career points

LeBron James made history once again on Tuesday, becoming the first player in NBA history to surpass 50,000 combined regular season and playoff points. The milestone came early in the first quarter when the Los Angeles Lakers superstar drained a three-pointer during his team’s dominant victory over the New Orleans Pelicans.

"It's a hell of a lot of points," James said after the game. "I'm super blessed to be able to put that many points up in the best league in the world and with the best players in the world throughout my career. So it's pretty special."

At 40 years old, James continues to defy expectations in his 22nd NBA season. He already holds the league’s all-time regular-season scoring record after surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in February 2023, and he also owns the all-time playoff scoring record, a title he claimed from Michael Jordan in 2017.

James has shown no signs of slowing down, earning NBA Western Conference Player of the Month honors for February—his 41st career monthly award, the most in league history. In doing so, he also became the oldest player ever to win the award, surpassing Karl Malone, who held the previous record at age 37.

Since the Lakers’ blockbuster trade for Luka Dončić last month, James and his new co-star have quickly developed strong on-court chemistry. That connection was on full display Tuesday as they combined for 64 points and 21 assists in the Lakers’ 136-115 win over the Pelicans.

"He is getting more and more comfortable not only with the team, not only with the sets, but with everything. The fans, LA," James said of Dončić. "Everyday is going to get better for him health-wise because he is getting better with his calf. It's good for our team."

Dončić, who suffered a calf strain on Christmas Day, missed nearly six weeks before returning to action. Now fully integrated into the lineup, he has helped propel the Lakers to a seven-game winning streak, catapulting them to second place in the Western Conference standings.

James emphasized the importance of team chemistry and accountability as the Lakers continue their push for postseason success.

"We're just trying to continue to mesh well offensively and defensively and hold each other accountable," James said. "I think it's working out for us so far."

SportsLigue