Where the Lakers great stands in terms of points, assists, 3-pointers, and other categories during his career

LeBron James, one of the greatest players in NBA history, has had an illustrious career, spanning over two decades. Throughout his journey, he has redefined the standards of basketball excellence, accumulating statistics that place him among the most elite players in the game’s history. This article will delve into his career achievements and rank him in various statistical categories, including points, assists, 3-pointers, and others, to showcase the full scope of his impact on the game.

1. Career Points

As of the 2024 season, LeBron James is the all-time leading scorer in NBA history, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s long-standing record. His total career points crossed the 38,000 mark in early 2023, cementing his place atop the scoring leaderboard. This monumental achievement is a testament to his remarkable consistency and longevity.

LeBron’s ability to score is unmatched for a player of his size (6’9″, 250 lbs) and skill set. His career average of approximately 27 points per game (PPG) puts him in rare company, with only a handful of players maintaining such a high average over the course of such a long career. His scoring comes in many forms—whether it’s through his trademark drives to the basket, mid-range jump shots, or more recently, his increasing ability to shoot from beyond the arc.

2. Career Assists

LeBron is also one of the NBA’s top playmakers, ranking in the top-10 in career assists. As of 2024, he has accumulated over 10,000 assists, a feat that is incredibly rare for a forward. LeBron’s ability to see the floor and facilitate offense, combined with his basketball IQ, has made him an exceptional point forward throughout his career.

His career assist average hovers around 7.5 assists per game. While his role has varied between being the primary ball handler, leading fast breaks, and creating scoring opportunities for teammates, LeBron’s vision and court awareness have remained constant. Whether playing with the Miami Heat’s “Big Three,” the Cleveland Cavaliers, or the Los Angeles Lakers, his ability to set up teammates for success is a hallmark of his game.

3. 3-Point Field Goals

While LeBron was never known primarily as a 3-point shooter early in his career, his evolution into a competent and consistent long-range shooter has been one of the defining features of his later years. LeBron ranks in the top-30 in career 3-pointers made, with over 2,000 career 3-pointers as of 2024.

His 3-point shooting percentage sits in the mid-30% range, which is respectable for a player of his stature. LeBron’s ability to knock down the 3-ball, particularly in clutch moments, has expanded his offensive game. His transformation from a primarily inside player to one who can stretch defenses with his shooting has contributed to his ability to remain effective, even as he ages.

4. Career Rebounds

While LeBron is not typically categorized as a dominant rebounder, his ability to collect boards has been crucial to his overall impact. His career average of 7 rebounds per game places him among the top forwards in NBA history in terms of rebounding, especially considering his primarily offensive role.

LeBron’s blend of size, athleticism, and intelligence allows him to contribute significantly on the glass, particularly on the defensive end, where his anticipation and timing make him a reliable rebounder. He has frequently averaged double-digit rebounds during the postseason, further solidifying his reputation as an all-around player.

5. Career Steals and Blocks

LeBron James has consistently been one of the league’s top defenders throughout his career. He ranks among the top-20 in career steals, with over 2,000 steals, an impressive feat considering his primary role as a forward. His ability to read passing lanes, coupled with his elite athleticism, has enabled him to consistently disrupt opposing offenses.

Additionally, LeBron’s shot-blocking ability is often underrated. With over 1,000 blocks for his career, he ranks among the top forwards in NBA history in this category. While he isn’t known for being a shot-blocking specialist, his timing, defensive instincts, and ability to contest shots around the rim make him a formidable presence defensively.

6. Career Minutes Played and Longevity

LeBron’s longevity is one of the most remarkable aspects of his career. Having entered the league in 2003, he is still performing at an elite level in his 20th season. LeBron ranks in the top-10 for career minutes played, with over 50,000 minutes on the court, including regular season and playoff minutes.

His ability to maintain such a high level of performance over an extended period is a testament to his work ethic, discipline, and physical conditioning. LeBron’s longevity has allowed him to chase milestones like the all-time scoring record and the possibility of securing more championships, solidifying his case for being the greatest of all time.

7. Career Playoff Performances

LeBron James is known for his postseason performances, consistently elevating his game in the NBA Playoffs. He holds numerous playoff records, including most playoff points and most playoff minutes played, surpassing players such as Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Tim Duncan. LeBron’s 28 points per game in the playoffs is among the highest of any player in NBA history.

He has appeared in 10 NBA Finals, winning 4 championships and establishing himself as one of the most clutch performers in basketball history. His ability to lead teams, whether in Cleveland, Miami, or Los Angeles, has been instrumental in his playoff success.

8. Career Efficiency

LeBron James has also been incredibly efficient throughout his career, a testament to his skill in both scoring and playmaking. He ranks in the top-25 for career field goal percentage among players with substantial careers, shooting over 50% from the field.

One of his most remarkable achievements has been his ability to remain effective in his late 30s. In his prime, LeBron consistently shot above 50% from the field, a feat that is even rarer when considering his all-around game, which involves scoring, passing, and rebounding. His basketball IQ and the way he selects his shots have contributed to his sustained efficiency.

9. Career Awards and Achievements

LeBron James’ career is adorned with numerous individual awards. These include 4 NBA MVPs, 4 NBA Finals MVPs, and 2 Olympic Gold Medals. He has been named to the All-NBA First Team 13 times and has earned a place in 17 All-Star games as of 2024.

Beyond these accolades, LeBron has revolutionized the player empowerment movement in the NBA, with his decision to join the Miami Heat in 2010 and his ability to form successful teams in Cleveland and Los Angeles. His influence stretches beyond just his on-court statistics.

10. Impact on the Game

LeBron James has had a profound influence on basketball, from his leadership on and off the court to his contributions to the game’s global growth. He was the first player to sign a $1 billion lifetime contract with Nike and has made a considerable impact through his media company, SpringHill Entertainment. His activism, charity work, and advocacy for social justice causes have solidified his place as one of the most influential athletes of all time.

LeBron’s impact on the NBA is not just confined to his stats. His willingness to take on leadership roles, challenge norms, and make players around him better has helped redefine what it means to be a modern NBA superstar. His game, work ethic, and leadership have set the standard for what future generations of players will aspire to.