Lakers vs Warriors: LeBron James Sets New Record in Christmas Day Win

The much-anticipated showdown between LeBron James and Steph Curry on Christmas Day delivered an unforgettable game, as the Los Angeles Lakers edged out the Golden State Warriors in a nail-biting 115-113 victory at Chase Center. With just 5 seconds left, Austin Reaves clinched the win with a decisive layup, advancing the Lakers’ season record to 17-13. Meanwhile, the Warriors, facing struggles, recorded their 11th loss in 14 games.

LeBron’s Historic Night

Playing in his NBA-record 19th Christmas Day game, LeBron James proved why he remains a legend. The 39-year-old scored 31 points, alongside 4 rebounds and 10 assists, securing his 11th Christmas Day victory, surpassing Dwyane Wade for the most all-time wins on the holiday.

LeBron also became the second player in NBA history, after Oscar Robertson, to score 30+ points in seven Christmas games. Robertson holds the record with eight such performances.

Austin Reaves Shines in Davis’ Absence

The Lakers faced adversity early when Anthony Davis exited the game with a sprained left ankle in the first quarter. Stepping up in his absence, Austin Reaves delivered a historic performance, achieving a triple-double with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. This makes Reaves only the 10th player in NBA history to record a triple-double on Christmas Day.

Reaves’ standout play was crucial for the Lakers, especially after his struggles in their prior loss against the Detroit Pistons.

LeBron's Playful Jab at the NFL

Following the Lakers' thrilling victory, LeBron shared his excitement and took a lighthearted jab at the NFL during his postgame interview. “I love the NFL, I love the NFL, but Christmas is our day,” he said, referencing the NBA's dominance on the holiday.

The NFL had two Christmas Day games this year, both streaming on Netflix, but they turned out to be one-sided affairs, ending in double-digit losses for the losing teams.

Warriors' Continued Struggles

The Warriors’ second straight loss continues a tough stretch for the team, with just three wins in their last 14 games. Despite strong performances from Curry and company, they couldn’t overcome the Lakers' relentless energy and Reaves' heroics.

The Lakers’ win adds another chapter to the heated rivalry between two of the NBA's greatest players, LeBron James and Steph Curry, and cements LeBron’s legacy as one of the league’s brightest stars on Christmas Day.