LeBron James becomes oldest with triple-double in NBA history

Los Angeles– Lebron James started on thursday night 124-104 overcome dallas mavericks Did something he had never done and finished it with something no player his age had ever done.

James scored or assisted Los Angeles Lakers‘The first 23 points of the first quarter are his longest streak to start a game in his 23-year career, according to ESPN Research.

By the end of the night, he had 28 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds and became the oldest player to post a triple-double in NBA history. He died at the age of 41 years, 44 days karl malone (40 years, 127 days) for the record.

“I appreciate moments like this more in my career, understanding where I am,” said James, who received a loud applause from the Crypto.com Arena crowd when he grabbed his 10th rebound with 2:05 remaining to secure the record. “I’m on the last leg of my journey, so I’ll definitely be pushing it a little further.”

James’ performance came two days after he missed his 18th game of the season on Tuesday due to arthritis in his left foot, disqualifying him from season-ending awards and ending his record All-NBA streak of 21 consecutive seasons because he could not reach the 65-game threshold to qualify.

Lakers coach JJ Redick, who is four months older than James but has been retired for five years since his playing days, said James continues to impress him.

“I don’t just take for granted how good he is, I recognize it on a daily basis,” Redick said. “It’s really the day-to-day professionalism and caring aspect that he displays that is the most remarkable thing. … He’s basically got a 23-year tenure. And there are different versions of that, but that’s what’s remarkable.”

James, who is in the final year of his contract with the Lakers and has repeatedly said he is unsure whether he will continue his career into a 24th season or beyond, made it clear that if he does retire, it won’t be because his play has declined.

“My game is not going anywhere,” James said. “It’s just my body. There are a lot of other factors that go into how long I’ll play. I don’t think it would ever affect my game if I decided to continue, no matter how long. I think it should be.” [my mind]: How long can I stay in love with this process?

“Because this has always been my habit. If I can’t continue to love the process, then if [my mental commitment] If it goes, my body is going to go. And once my body is gone, it’s a cover. Then the love goes away, and then the fun and everything else goes away. So this is it. It’s not like my game is getting worse.”

Thursday’s performance was James’ first triple-double of the season and the 123rd of his career, good for No. 5 on the all-time list.

Mavericks coach Jason Kidd, who retired at age 40 with 107 triple-doubles – sixth on the all-time list – shared his appreciation for James’ longevity.

“It shows that someone who has taken care of their body and mind so far is playing the game the right way,” Kidd said. “And at a higher level.”

The win snapped a two-game losing streak and improved the Lakers’ record to 33–21 heading into the All-Star break. They are in fifth place in the Western Conference.

“And to be able to do that and get a win means more to me than anything,” James said. “But I’m very fortunate to play this game, play it at a high level.”

James won’t get as much time off as most of his Lakers teammates. He will play in Sunday’s All-Star Game for a record 22nd time luka doncicWho will make his sixth appearance if his mild strain to his left hamstring heals enough for him to play. lakers backup center jackson hayes Will participate in Saturday’s dunk contest.

While James acknowledged he will enjoy whatever rest he can get before the Lakers’ schedule resumes on Feb. 20, when they host the Lakers. LA ClippersHe wasn’t going to complain about going back to work either.

“I’m a goofy 41-year-old kid,” James said. “I get a chance to play basketball. They pay me to play basketball. Why wouldn’t I be happy? I get a chance to be with my son and my teammates and all these incredible fans who have watched me throughout my career and they give me all the support and love I have. I enjoy what I do. … I love what I do. It’s great.”