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USA Today via Reuters

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USA Today via Reuters

With a reign of 20 years in the NBA, LeBron James isn’t new to the history books. Arguably a freak of nature, the King is one of the most complete basketball players in NBA history. While he might never become the undisputed GOAT, his 20th season holds the potential to immensely solidify his case. Notably, just one man stands in his way to being the all-time leading NBA scorer, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

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The Los Angeles Lakers’ legendary center’s record seemed unbeatable for several decades. Accumulating 38,387 points throughout his six-time championship-winning career, Abdul-Jabbar set the benchmark high. No NBA player seemed to get close with the best attempt coming from Karl Malone who was still over 1000 points shy. However, just when it seemed impossible, a rookie from 2003 was about to make a huge dent in NBA history. Just 1,325 points separate the Akron Hammer from sitting at the apex.

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However, another Lakers great could also be on his radar. Notably, one of the finest passers in the game, Magic Johnson could also have his tally surpassed by James.

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LeBron James could achieve an unbelievable feat all in one season

The era of the Showtime Los Angeles Lakers was undoubtedly special. The combination of Kareem Abdul-Jabar and Magic Johnson was truly lethal. One of the most exciting shows in sports history had two historic commanders. The great center was a nearly unstoppable offensive great. On the other hand, Magic Johnson certainly had the spark in his fingers. Breaking down the entire floor with his surreal passes, the two made history side by side. However, LeBron James has both in his range heading into the 20th season.

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While Abdul-Jabbar’s record is the main attraction, James is just 97 assists shy of passing up Johnson. Likewise, NBA fans dropped into a state of shock.

With the points record in front, James’ elite court vision and passing IQ have been in the shadows. A pass-first guy, James became the only player in the decorated history of the NBA to have 30,000 points, 10,000 rebounds, and 10,000 assists. The four-time champion ranks 7th on the list of all-time passers, just shy of Magic’s tally.

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Here are some of the reactions from NBA Twitter:

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The potential of history-making for LeBron James next season exceeds the charts. Over his 20-year career, the Lakers forward has never managed to record less than 349 assists. Hence, this season alone James could take over the 4th position among the elite list of passers.

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While James surpassing Magic Johnson might not make him a better passer, the feat is enough to change the course of NBA history. Arguably no other player has dominated basketball in all facets like the King.

As the countdown for a much anticipated 20th season comes closer, do you think LeBron James will achieve both these milestones? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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Anuj Talwalkar

4,483 Articles

Anuj Talwalkar is a senior NBA Newsbreak specialist at EssentiallySports, trusted for his real-time coverage and fast, accurate updates on league developments. With five NBA seasons and two Olympics coverages under his belt, Anuj stands out as the go-to reporter for the NBA Matchday Newsdesk. As part of the EssentiallySports Journalistic Excellence Program, he continuously refines his hard reporting with grounded storytelling shaped by fan culture and court-level insights. An economics graduate and lifelong OKC fan since the Supersonics era, Anuj combines analytical thinking and a genuine passion for basketball. He’s recognized for both his live news coverage and feature writing, with aspirations to someday interview Russell Westbrook. Anuj’s reporting is marked by its reliability, depth, and strong connection to the pulse of the NBA.

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