LeBron James Passes Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for Most Combined Points in Regular Season and Playoffs

Another name enters the history books at the NBA’s Hall of Fame. When scoring more points when it counts among NBA players, look no further than Lebron James. Courtesy of his 3-pointer in the third quarter of the Los Angeles Lakers game against the Golden State Warriors, Lebron surpassed Abdul-Jabbar’s 44,149 combined points: Lebron now has 38,387 points from the regular season and 5,762 points from the playoffs.

Lebron went all-out right from the get-go, tying Abdul-Jabbar’s tally with a 3-pointer with 1:24 remaining in the second quarter. In concluding the first half, he had 18 points courtesy of 7-for-12 shooting, ensuring the Lakers were still at par with the Warriors.

Despite a bright start, Lebron’s finish to the game suffered a slight blip. Apart from shooting only 1-for-10 in the fourth quarter, he missed the first of three free throws with 2.4 seconds left on the clock. Unfortunately, the Lakers didn’t win, albeit ahead with six points with about four minutes remaining. The Golden State Warriors eventually won 117-115.  

Lebron James’ record tally cannot be understated, with 44,152 points from the regular season and playoffs. When you consider points scored only in the regular season, Lebron comes a little under 2,000 points short of Hall of Famer Kareem’s blistering record. The LA Lakers didn’t waste time and soon acknowledged Lebron’s trailblazing achievement on their official Twitter handle.

Interestingly, James acquired the NBA’s all-time scoring title in fewer games than Abdul-Jabbar as well—1,616 games compared to Kareem’s 1,797. This is no mean achievement, and it speaks volumes of the different aspects of Lebron’s greatness.

Countable NBA players have been more consistent when scoring on the court, and James’ ongoing record double-figures scoring streak is evident. Since entering the NBA league at 18 years old, Lebron has been a mainstay in the 19 seasons. James’ star keeps soaring higher and higher, from a young prodigy of the Cleveland Cavaliers to a veteran in the Los Angeles Lakers.

Plus, his eight consecutive NBA Finals appearances has provided him additional games to boost his points tally. Thanks to his meticulous health and fitness regime, Lebron has featured in at least 60 games each season which is quite impressive.

Most importantly, James’ game has evolved thanks to an improved post-game and effective 3-point shooting.