Monday, 13 May 2024

Kia MVP Ladder: LeBron James Makes History and Returns to the Top 10

Introduction

In an epic display of skill and longevity, LeBron James, the forward for the Los Angeles Lakers, has achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first player in NBA history to reach 39,000 career points. This monumental feat was accomplished with an early 3-pointer during a victory against the Utah Jazz in the West Group A action of the NBA In-Season Tournament. As a result, the Lakers have secured home-court advantage for the tournament quarterfinals. James, who will turn 39 years old next month, re-enters the Top 10 contenders for the prestigious Kia Race to the MVP Ladder.

A Record-breaking Performance

One remarkable statistic that showcases James’ brilliance is his impressive field-goal percentage of 57.8%, even after a slightly lower shooting percentage of 47.4% in the recent game against the Dallas Mavericks. If he maintains this level of accuracy throughout the season, the four-time MVP will achieve a career-high field goal percentage at the age of 39.

Another noteworthy statistic is James’ exceptional performance in terms of effective field goal percentage (65.1%) and true shooting percentage (66.9%). These figures represent the best marks of his 21-year NBA career. James has excelled both in shooting from the perimeter and finishing near the basket. While shooting a career-best 41.4% from beyond the arc, he has also achieved an outstanding 73.3% shooting percentage in the paint, surpassing his previous best of 72.9% in the 2013-14 season. Moreover, the majority of his shots (53%) have come from the paint, the highest rate since his first season with the Lakers.

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LeBron James Shooting with the Lakers

Season Field Goal Attempts Field Goal Percentage (%)
2023-24 41.4%
Highest*
Lowest**
Through Nov. 22, 2023
  • Highest mark of his career
    ** Lowest mark of his career

What Others Are Saying

LeBron James’ incredible performance has garnered praise from many, including Los Angeles Lakers center Christian Wood, who believes that James should be in the MVP race due to his exceptional achievements at the age of 38.

Top 5 Contenders for the MVP Title

  1. Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets

    • Last week’s ranking: No. 1
    • Season stats: 27.5 ppg, 13.1 rpg, 8.9 apg
    • His case: Despite a recent ejection, Jokic bounced back with a triple-double and will need to perform strongly in the upcoming game against the Houston Rockets.
  2. Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks

    • Last week’s ranking: No. 2
    • Season stats: 30.5 ppg, 8.3 rpg, 8.1 apg
    • His case: Doncic’s outstanding performance against the Lakers, which included a 30-point triple-double, solidifies his position as a top contender.
  3. Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers

    • Last week’s ranking: No. 3
    • Season stats: 31.9 ppg, 11.3 rpg, 6.1 apg
    • His case: Despite missing a game due to injury, Embiid’s consistency and ability to record double-doubles make him a strong candidate.
  4. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder

    • Last week’s ranking: No. 5
    • Season stats: 30.4 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 6.3 apg
    • His case: Gilgeous-Alexander’s exceptional scoring and leadership skills have contributed to the Thunder’s winning streak.
  5. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics

    • Last week’s ranking: No. 4
    • Season stats: 27.9 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 4.1 apg
    • His case: Tatum’s impressive milestone of reaching 5,000 career points, combined with his consistent performance, places him among the top contenders.
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FAQs

  1. How many career points has LeBron James scored?

    • LeBron James has surpassed the 39,000 career points milestone, making him the first player in NBA history to achieve this feat.
  2. How has LeBron James’ shooting improved this season?

    • LeBron James has displayed remarkable improvement in his shooting percentages this season. Notably, he has achieved a career-best 41.4% shooting from the 3-point range and an outstanding 73.3% shooting percentage in the paint.

Summary

LeBron James’ historic achievement of reaching 39,000 career points has propelled him back into the Top 10 contenders for the coveted MVP title. His exceptional shooting percentages and all-around performance make him a formidable force on the court. As the NBA season progresses, the race for the MVP title intensifies, with top players like Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Joel Embiid, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Jayson Tatum vying for the prestigious honor. Stay tuned to witness the thrilling competition unfold and discover who will emerge as this season’s MVP.

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Keywords: LeBron James, NBA MVP Ladder, historic feat, career points, shooting percentages, contenders, Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Joel Embiid, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jayson Tatum, NBA season, Osceolagarage.com.