LeBron James’ run of 1,297 consecutive double-digit scoring games came to an end Thursday night, as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer was held to just 8 points in the Lakers’ 123–120 win over the Toronto Raptors. The streak, which began nearly 19 years ago on Jan. 6, 2007, was by far the longest in NBA history — more than 400 games longer than Michael Jordan’s previous record of 866. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (787) and Karl Malone (575) sit well behind on the all-time list.
Despite the rare off-night scoring, James still delivered the game’s defining moment. With the score tied in the final seconds, Austin Reaves handed him the ball, giving James a chance to extend the streak himself. Instead, the 21-time All-Star made the unselfish play, kicking it out to Rui Hachimura for a buzzer-beating three that sealed the win.
James had checked back into the game with 5:23 remaining with the streak still alive. He had just 6 points at that moment, shooting 3-of-15 from the field. He scored with 1:46 left to reach 8 points, then missed a 14-footer with 1:01 remaining that would have given him double digits. He never attempted another shot.
It marked his lowest scoring game since Jan. 5, 2007 — the day before his historic streak began. James finished 4-of-17 from the field but added 11 assists, including the game-winning assist, and once again showed his impact on the court extends far beyond scoring.
At 41 years old and in a record 23rd NBA season, James has been working his way back after missing the first stretch of the season with sciatica. He entered Thursday averaging a career-low 15.2 points along with 4.0 rebounds and 7.2 assists. And while Father Time remains undefeated, James’ nearly two-decade streak of consistency stands as one of the most remarkable feats in NBA history.