LeBron James achieved a historic milestone Friday night, becoming the fourth player in NBA history to reach 12,000 career assists. The 41-year-old Lakers star recorded 28 points, 12 assists, six rebounds, and four steals in a 101-73 win over the Phoenix Suns, propelling Los Angeles to at least the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference playoffs.
The Lakers, who have already secured home-court advantage in the first round, could still move up to the No. 3 seed if they defeat the Utah Jazz on Sunday and the Denver Nuggets lose their final game. James has stepped into a primary role due to injuries to Luka Doncic (hamstring) and Austin Reaves (oblique), averaging 24.6 points, 12.6 assists, and 7.6 rebounds over his last three games.
'Both those guys are going to try to come back, and it's our job to extend the season so that they can come back,' Lakers coach JJ Redick told reporters. The team hopes Doncic and Reaves can return for the playoffs, though neither is expected to play in the first round.
James, who has embraced his expanded role, acknowledged the challenge but remained focused on leading the team. 'I had to tap back into a role that I’ve been accustomed to in the past,' he said. 'I’m just trying to make things happen for us to stay afloat.' The Lakers' playoff positioning and James' historic achievement highlight their resilience amid adversity.