Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James may be finally slowing down in Year 23, but he still finds a way to make the big play when it matters most.
For example, James had a rough night shooting the basketball against the Toronto Raptors but he was a key figure in the win as he delivered a perfect pass to Rui Hachimura in the corner who hit the game-winning 3-pointer. James has always prided himself on making the right play, and he did so in that situation despite his historic double-digit scoring streak coming to an end.
LeBron emphasized after the game that he had no negative feelings about his streak being broken, showing that he truly only cares about winning basketball games.
On the other side of the matchup was Brandon Ingram, who scored 20 points against his former team. James shared a season with Ingram in Los Angeles and had high praise for the Toronto star and his other former Baby Lakers teammates, via The Score:
“[Brandon Ingram] is an unbelievable talent. I had him in my first year in LA, obviously, and he was a young stud then. A seasoned vet now. Super mature now. His game has matured. He’s gotten better and better, and I love to see him thrive. All the guys that I played with, especially my first year, I love seeing him, Caruso, Zo, Josh Hart, Zu, all the guys, just to name a few of them, it’s great to see them play the game the right way.”
James’ first year in L.A. was tough because the Lakers missed the playoffs, but Ingram and the rest of the young core got a great opportunity to learn under the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Since then, the former Lakers have gone on to do well for themselves while James is still chasing championships with the Lakers.
Ingram was dealt away to the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for Anthony Davis, and peaked with his lone All-Star appearance. However, Ingram’s finally gotten healthy and is finding his footing on a Toronto team that has been a pleasant surprise during the 2025-26 season.
James got the best of Ingram and the Raptors this time around, but there’s a lot more work to do this season.
JJ Redick believes basketball gods rewarded LeBron James for playing the right way
LeBron James could have very easily taken the final shot for himself to salvage his double-digit scoring streak, but he made the pass to Rui Hachimura with zero hesitation. Head coach JJ Redick believes the basketball gods rewarded James and the Lakers with a win as a reward for playing the right way.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!
