LeBron James set the NBA record for most regular-season games played with his 1,612th appearance, surpassing Robert Parish, in a 105-104 win over Orlando. “It was a regular prep day… once I stepped on the floor and the game began, I was breaking the record. That’s a pretty cool thing,” James said.
James described his role in the decisive play that allowed Kennard to hit the winning 3-pointer. “Once we had that movement going, my job is to try to make a hard dive at the rim… a couple guys went with me and it left Luke wide open. One of the best shooters in the NBA,” he explained.
The veteran forward credited team execution for the success. “Great play calls by coach St. Jean… JJ drew it up on the board and we followed them to a T. Marcus made all the reads and Luke nailed it,” James said.
He recounted the moment of anticipation as Kennard prepared to shoot. “When I turned and saw the ball was in his hands on a wide open three, I pretty much knew it was cash… had a super quick reaction right after,” James said, noting the team’s immediate focus on defense afterward.
James highlighted the Lakers’ composure in clutch situations. “Sense of calmness. There’s no pressure. We know we can get stops and we know we can make plays and we did that,” he said.
Reflecting on his contribution to the team over two decades, James emphasized consistency and availability. “The best thing you can have for your teammates is availability… I’ve tried to be available throughout my career to my guys. That’s just a byproduct of it,” he said.
The Lakers extended their winning streak to nine games, improving to 46-25 and remaining third in the Western Conference, while Orlando fell to 38-32. Los Angeles faces the Detroit Pistons Monday, and the Magic host the Indiana Pacers.
