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James understood his monumental streak of putting up 10+ points was in danger. In that crucial moment, though, it didn't concern him.

The correct basketball play involved passing the ball – so he did. Consequently, the legendary streak came to an end.

James's staggering streak of 1,297 consecutive regular-season games with 10+ points was snapped on Thursday night, as the NBA's all-time scoring leader had only a mere eight points during the Lakers' close win against the Toronto Raptors. He made the clutch helper, feeding Rui Hachimura for a three-point shot at the buzzer.

“None,” James stated after being questioned about the streak ending. “The team got the victory.”

An Unselfish Play Secures the Win

LeBron had the chance to tried to secure the contest – and extended his record – in the closing seconds, instead, he decided to make the extra pass to his teammate in the left corner. Hachimura made the shot, prompting James celebrated with his hands in the air.

“Just playing basketball the proper way. Make the correct play,” James noted. That has always been how I operate. That’s how I learned to play. That's what I've done for two decades.”

James is acutely aware of how many points he has at any point,” commented Lakers coach JJ Redick. He acted as he has done so many times.”

The Record's Final Moments

James re-entered the floor for the final time with just over five minutes left, the result along with the historic run on the line. His tally was six points from 3 for 15 from the field by that point.

He scored at under two minutes remaining to knot the score then missed a 14-footer with one minute to go which could have gotten him into double figures.

He passed up one more attempt – though the opportunity was there. Austin Reaves found him with a few seconds left, however, James opted to make the extra pass instead of shooting.

The spirits of the game, if you approach it the right way, they will bless you,” Redick added.

Reflecting on a Staggering Run

This incredible run commenced back in January 2007. It was easily the longest streak of its kind in NBA history: His Airness, Michael Jordan had 866 consecutive games with 10+ points, Kareem had 787 such games, and Karl Malone recorded of 575 games.

“He’s such a team-oriented player,” noted Lakers center Jake LaRavia.

He simply plays hoops. He had the opportunity but because of his nature as a player and his personality off the court, he executed the team play, found Rui and claimed the game.”

Scoring in double figures was usually an afterthought well before the final period. Throughout his run, he had attained ten points by the beginning of the final quarter on the vast majority of occasions coming into the contest.

Yet two of those rare single-digit games through three quarters had occurred in the last week: He had nine points entering the final quarter against Dallas last week, and then had six going into the fourth against Phoenix on Monday night.

LeBron was able to preserve the record against the Suns. The very next outing, it was over – and he celebrated anyway.

I only ever make the right play. That comes naturally, no matter what,” James said. When you make the right play, the basketball gods are always returning the favor.”