Particle.news
Download on the App Store
4 ARTICLES
·
1h ago

LeBron James Plays First Back-to-Back, Powers Lakers Past Hawks With Near Triple-Double

Playing his first back-to-back at 41 preserved his All-NBA eligibility under the 65-game rule.

Dec 23, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and head coach JJ Redick against the Phoenix Suns in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Overview

  • James tallied 31 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds in a 141-116 win that halted Los Angeles' three-game slide and ended Atlanta's three-game run.
  • Listed as questionable with foot and back issues, he chose to play after his pregame routine, according to coach JJ Redick.
  • One rebound short of a triple-double, he would have become the oldest player to record one, with Karl Malone's mark standing at 40 years, 127 days.
  • By suiting up on the second night, he kept alive award eligibility, as another absence would drop him below the NBA's 65-game requirement.
  • The Lakers moved to 24-14, and their starters produced a statistical combination never before recorded by an NBA starting five, per OptaSTATS.