LeBron James will be playing an NBA record 18th Christmas Day game on Monday. However, he doesn’t appear to be too excited about it.
When ESPN reporter Dave McMenamin asked about the upcoming rivalry clash against the Boston Celtics on the 25th, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar brushed off the question.
“All I care about is I want a day off. I don’t give a damn about Monday. The only thing I care about Monday right now is my daughter waking up and opening gifts. That’s it. Please don’t talk me about Christmas Day right now.”
LeBron James on if he looks forward to the Christmas Day game against the Celtics
James started at point guard for the first time since 2020 and delivered a masterful 40-point performance in a win against the Oklahoma City Thunder. For the soon-to-be 39-year-old, that must be tiring. No wonder he wanted a day off, considering the miles on his body.
The Gift That Keeps On Giving
James is the gift that keeps on giving on Christmas Day. He is the NBA’s all-time leading scorer for a reason. In fact, he holds several records for the December 25 games, including the most games played out of anyone.
Here are more of James’ Christmas Day records:
- All-time Christmas Day leading scorer (460 points)
- All-time leader in games played (17)
- Tied as the all-time leader in Christmas Day wins (10)
- All-time Christmas Day leader in assists (119)
As a matter of fact, one of those 10 wins James delivered was a victory against Kobe Bryant in 2009. The four-time champion scored 26 points, four rebounds, and nine assists. Bryant had 35/10/8 in the 102-87 loss.
Even if James doesn’t sound too excited about the upcoming Monday, he has a knack for showing up in huge games. The Monday night tiff against one of the league’s best will give the Lakers a signature victory this season.
