LeBron James entered the Toronto matchup carrying the NBA's longest active double-digit scoring streak, spanning back to January 2007 when he last scored under 10 against Milwaukee.

He struggled offensively, finishing 4-of-17 from the field for just 8 points alongside 11 assists and 6 rebounds. With the score tied at 120 and seconds left, James received the inbound from Austin Reaves but spotted Hachimura open in the corner.​

Instead of forcing a shot to extend the mark, James swung the ball precisely, setting up Hachimura's buzzer-beating three-pointer for his first career game-winner. Lakers coach JJ Redick praised the decision, noting James has faced criticism before for similar selfless plays that led to teammate heroics.​

LeBron Shrugs Off Milestone Loss

Postgame, James dismissed any sentiment about the streak's conclusion, laughing off the question with a simple focus on the win. He emphasized his lifelong approach of making the correct read regardless of personal stats, crediting it to how he learned basketball.

Hachimura confirmed James signaled the play was coming his way moments earlier, highlighting the veteran's court vision.​

The moment underscored James' priorities at age 41, prioritizing team success over individual records in a tight road battle.​

Unmatched Legacy in Perspective

No active player nears James' feat, with Kevin Durant's 267-game streak leading and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at 170. The run predated smartphones and covered multiple franchises, cementing James as the league's scoring ironman.

Even Raptors defender Scottie Barnes acknowledged James' consistent right-play mentality after contesting him all night.​

Fans and analysts hailed the poetic finish, where a personal record fell but propelled a crucial victory amid the Lakers' push.