Written by Staff Writer
By Grace Onoriode
Journalist and sports analyst, CNN
The Los Angeles Lakers are only a win away from their first playoff appearance since 2012, which means some last-minute moves are being made across the NBA.
This week, LeBron James became the fifth player in NBA history to surpass 100 triple-doubles in a season. Even though his team, the Los Angeles Lakers, has struggled so far, LeBron James is on the verge of achieving an historic milestone this season.
On Sunday, he did just that. James finished with 31 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists in the team’s 128-117 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies.
Despite the six-time NBA MVP’s brilliant individual effort, the team lost the game and dropped to 3-4.
LeBron James celebrates after recording his 100th triple-double on October 24. Christian Petersen/Getty Images
Team-mates have acknowledged their appreciation of the forward.
“Just learned how to stop him,” Lonzo Ball said after Sunday’s game. “He’s really a good player. Really good player.”
Even James’ coach on the Lakers, Luke Walton, said after the game: “I just think he’s having fun out there and it’s shown.”
The 24-year-old James is in his 14th NBA season and the fourth season in which he’s played for the Lakers, but it’s not just his age that makes his performance so impressive.
James was also named All-NBA First Team for the second consecutive season and All-NBA Second Team for the second consecutive season.
Additionally, in a season that has been as exciting as a Hollywood blockbuster, James is also a finalist for a fourth league Most Valuable Player award, cementing his place as one of the top players in the NBA.
With four games left to play in the regular season, James is a win away from achieving a true career milestone: a 100th triple-double.
Of course, by the time the Lakers play another game on November 11, it will no longer be possible to achieve such a feat.
For now, though, James and his team will gladly take their 32-year-old star’s unbridled brilliance — or rather glimmering play — every night.