LeBron scores 24 points as Lakers dominate Wizards.
LeBron James guided the Los Angeles Lakers to a dominant 134-96 win over the Washington Wizards in the U.S. capital, despite the absence of injured Anthony Davis.
The 40-year-old James led the Lakers with 24 points, 11 assists, and three rebounds, including a stunning three-pointer from near half-court. Los Angeles was in control by halftime, having scored 78 points in the first two quarters.
Rui Hachimura contributed 22 points, while Austin Reaves added 17. Shake Milton impressed off the bench with 21 points, and Bronny James also scored late in the fourth quarter.
The Lakers improved to 27-19 with the victory, holding the fifth spot in the Western Conference. The Wizards, with a 6-41 record, sit at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick praised James’ performance in the bounce-back win after their 118-104 loss to Philadelphia on Tuesday.
“He was incredible,” Redick said of James. “He was aggressive, trusting his teammates, and creating opportunities for both himself and others. It was remarkable.”
Redick also highlighted James’ longevity, noting, “At 40 years old, in year 22 of his career, with countless accolades, he steps up in a game like this and sets the tone. His competitive stamina is impressive.”
In another game on Thursday, Darius Garland marked his All-Star selection with a 26-point performance as the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Atlanta Hawks 137-115 to extend their lead in the Eastern Conference.
Garland was one of seven Cavaliers players in double figures as Cleveland’s balanced offense dominated Atlanta, securing their 39th win of the season.
The victory was particularly sweet for Garland, who was named to next month’s All-Star game, alongside teammate Evan Mobley, just before the game began.
Garland and Mobley, along with teammate Donovan Mitchell, will participate in the NBA All-Star festivities in San Francisco, as will Cavs’ coach Kenny Atkinson, who will coach one of the All-Star teams.
Atkinson expressed pride in his players’ achievements, saying, “I’m so proud of them. They’ll carry this for the rest of their careers. Having three players in the All-Star game is fantastic, and it speaks well for our future.”
Garland led the Cavs’ scoring, while Mitchell added 24 points, Mobley recorded 16 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists, and Ty Jerome contributed 20 points off the bench.
For Atlanta, Zaccharie Risacher led with 30 points, including five three-pointers, while Trae Young struggled with only 15 points.
Cleveland’s win improved their record to 39-9, extending their lead over second-place Boston by six games. Atlanta dropped to 22-26 with the loss.