LeBron James Leads Lakers to Seventh Straight Victory, Achieves Scoring Milestone

LeBron James powered the Los Angeles Lakers with 34 points, reaching an unprecedented career milestone by becoming the first player to score 50,000 combined points in both regular-season and playoff games. The Lakers extended their longest winning streak in four years to seven games with a commanding 136-115 win against the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday night.

Luka Doncic was instrumental for the Lakers, contributing 30 points, 15 assists, and eight rebounds, as the team surged to second place in the Western Conference with a 39-21 record. Without injured starters Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura, the Lakers relied on Jaxson Hayes, who delivered a season-best performance with 19 points and 10 rebounds.

For the Pelicans, Zion Williamson was a standout, scoring 37 points, as the team concluded an encouraging 2-2 road trip. Trey Murphy III added another 19 points to the Pelicans’ effort.

James solidified his latest achievement with a three-pointer early in the first quarter, earning a standing ovation from the Lakers’ fans, which he acknowledged with a wave.

Bronny James saw action for the first time since February 12, playing the final 4 minutes and scoring two points.

Takeaways
- Pelicans: Williamson showcased an exceptional performance, making 17 of 23 shots and providing six assists. Despite the loss, New Orleans can be optimistic about their offensive execution against the NBA’s leading defensive squad in recent weeks. - Lakers: Nearly everything is clicking for the team. The Lakers boast an impressive 11-2 record since acquiring Doncic and are 7-2 with him on the court. Four players stepped up to score at least eight points, compensating for the absences of Hachimura and Reaves.

Key Moment
Doncic’s 17-point outburst in the first quarter marked his highest scoring quarter this season, punctuated by three consecutive three-pointers.

Key Stat
James remains the only player in NBA history to surpass 45,000 combined points, let alone 50,000, with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar trailing at 44,149.

Up Next
The Pelicans are set to host the Rockets on Thursday night, while the Lakers will complete their six-game homestand against the Knicks.