LeBron James Sets Ambitious New Season-Long Goal

After overcoming a 22-point comeback win over the Phoenix Suns Friday night, the Los Angeles Lakers advance to 2-0 for the first time since 2010-11. However, Lakers fans have more to celebrate as LeBron James shared that he plans on playing all 82 games this season — a feat he’s only accomplished once in his decorated NBA career.

LeBron James Bets On His Durability

Despite injuries being unpredictable, James — even at the ripe age of 39 — is fully committed to finally shutting down all the load management criticism that he’s previously faced.

In six complete seasons with the Lakers, James has only eclipsed 70 games once (71 in 2023-24) and has missed more time than he ever has. Though the four-time NBA champion will be 40 years old at the end of the calendar year, if he can accomplish his 82-game goal, he can climb yet another all-time list and land second in total career games (1,574) — only behind Robert Parish (1,611).

James has been a generational bucket-getter and is a strong candidate for the greatest basketball player of all time. The King has been sitting comfortably on his throne since entering the league in 2003 and has outperformed all expectations. As he enters year 22, James looks to widen the gap between him and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar on the all-time scoring list.

NBA: Phoenix Suns at Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James
Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

The 20-time consecutive All-NBA talent is one of only 11 players in NBA history to play at least 20 seasons. James is currently in his 22nd campaign, making him the second player ever to achieve this milestone, alongside Vince Carter, who retired after his 22nd year. However, James continues to dominate and hold off Father Time for possibly another year. Of all the other 10 players to have contributed two decades in the NBA, James is the only one to play at a high level well into the back half of his career.

In year 20, James averaged 28.9 points per game. Then last year, in year 21, the Akron product tore the league up for 25.7 points per game. The next highest average from any player in year 20 or 21: Kobe Bryant at 17.6 points per game.

But again, Father Time is undefeated and will catch up to James shortly. Through two games this season, the oldest player in the league has shown some regression, totaling his lowest scoring output (37) to start a season since 2015-16. Additionally, James’ 14 made field goals and 29 shot attempts in the first pair of games are career lows since 2013-14 when he began the season shooting 14-28. Meanwhile, the last time James started his year with nine rebounds was during his junior campaign in 2005.

Unfortunately, the greatness of King James is nearing an end, but with the wheels still running, James will look to provide everything he has in hopes of contributing to 82 games and adding a fifth championship ring to his showcase.

NBA: Phoenix Suns at Los Angeles Lakers
Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images