Internet Explodes as LeBron James Sacrifices 18-Year Streak for Game Winner – “End of An Era”

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James was on a 1297 consecutive game streak of scoring 10-points or more.

Internet Explodes as LeBron James Sacrifices 18-Year Streak for Game Winner – “End of An Era”

LeBron James' consecutive 10-point streak ended at 1297 games (Image via FirstSportz)

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In 23 seasons, LeBron James has managed to have his name etched in most of the individual records the NBA can think of. As he continues to play, the question is when one of them will end.

His all-time scoring record will not stop, nor will his assists, steals, blocks, or rebound tallies. Then there are the number of games, both in the regular season and the playoffs, that won’t stop until he officially retires.

With rumors around that his calling an end to his legendary career might not come soon, the Akron native continues to make individual accolades something of a monopoly. For instance, in their previous loss to the Phoenix Suns, LeBron James did not play well, and immediately after getting to 10 points, he subbed himself out of that game.

The King was accused of stat-padding as there was no need to stress himself, especially when his physical struggles were apparent. Then, in today’s game against the Toronto Raptors, there was hope that he would play well after getting 3 days’ rest.

With the game tied at 120 and with less than 13 seconds left, the 4-time champion was standing at 8 points. Austin Reaves drew the double team and swiftly sent the ball out to his veteran teammate.

As soon as James took one dribble, the Raptors’ Immanuel Quickley rolled onto him. Seeing his lane collapse, the 40-year-old chose to avoid the trap and swung the ball out to his left, where Rui Hachimura was standing.

The Japanese star shot from beyond the 3-point line, which landed straight inside the basket, sealing the win. With that, LeBron James’ 1297 streak of consecutive 10-point games ended.

Fans lose it as LeBron James’ 10-point streak ends

Among all of LeBron James’ individual records, fans have vehemently defended the superstar, especially when he was accused of stat-padding his way to keep this 10-point streak.

But when he sacrificed his streak for a team victory, fans lost their minds. Not only did they see the competitive side of the 4-time league MVP, but they also saw his individual accomplishment end.

Fans were both emotional as well as stunned to see the father of 3 prioritize team performance over his own. Check out examples of those reactions below:

LeBron James could have attempted that last shot. Even if it did not fall, he could have tried again in overtime. However, it seems he was more interested in his team staying in second position than holding on to a record many would find difficult to break.

LeBron James reiterates his desire to win

After the buzzer, fans were ecstatic that LeBron James was celebrating wildly with his teammates after the win rather than sulking about his record. Later, reporters asked him if he had anything to say about the streak.

LeBron James celebrated with teammates after win
LeBron James celebrated with teammates after win (Image via Awful Announcing/X)

You always make the right play, that’s always been my MO, that’s how I was taught the game.

LeBron James replied

When another reporter followed up with a question about whether he had any regrets not taking that final shot, the Lakers’ superstar shrugged it off.

He reiterated that it was more important to win, and the schematics of that final play made it clear to him that it was better to pass it to Rui Hachimura than try and win in overtime.

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