LeBron sets Christmas record in Lakers' win.© (@bballforever_ )
LeBron James added another historic milestone to his illustrious career on Christmas Day, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a thrilling 115-113 victory over the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco. The win, secured by Austin Reaves’ clutch lay-up with just one second remaining, marked James’ 11th Christmas Day victory in 19 appearances, setting an NBA record for the most wins on December 25.
LeBron James, who turned 39 this month, delivered a stellar performance, scoring 31 points to help the Lakers overcome the early loss of Anthony Davis. Davis exited the game just eight minutes after twisting his left ankle, leaving the Lakers without their defensive anchor. Reflecting on the challenge, James emphasized the team’s collective effort. “It’s always difficult to play without AD, so our job is even more heightened,” he said. “Everyone has to chip in, especially on the defensive end, because AD is our anchor. I thought guys did a great job of just playing off one another, getting to where we wanted to get to offensively, and being able to buckle down and get timely stops versus an excellent offensive team.”
Despite the absence of Davis, the Lakers maintained control for most of the game, holding a nine-point lead with just 90 seconds remaining. However, the Warriors mounted a late comeback, led by Stephen Curry’s brilliance. Curry, who finished with a game-high 38 points, scored eight in the final moments, including back-to-back three-pointers that tied the game with 7.6 seconds left. The Lakers responded with poise as Reaves drove to the basket to seal the win. Reaves capped an impressive night with a triple-double, recording 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. Curry’s eight three-pointers also tied the NBA record for a Christmas Day game.
In other Christmas Day matchups, rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama shone in his holiday debut, putting up 42 points, 18 rebounds, four assists, and four blocks. Despite his heroics, the San Antonio Spurs fell short against the New York Knicks, losing 117-114. Mikal Bridges led the Knicks with a season-high 41 points, the second-most ever achieved by a player on Christmas, behind Bernard King’s 60-point masterpiece in 1984.
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Meanwhile, Anthony Edwards led the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 105-99 road victory over the Dallas Mavericks. Edwards scored 26 points as the Timberwolves capitalized on the absence of Luka Dončić, who left the game in the second quarter with a calf strain and did not return.
