LeBron James Triple Double Record Leads Los Angeles Lakers Past Dallas Mavericks 124-104

LOS ANGELES — In a breaking update that adds another milestone to his historic career, LeBron James became the oldest player in NBA history to record a triple double, finishing with 28 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds in the Los Angeles Lakers’ 124-104 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night at Crypto.com Arena.

At 41 years and 44 days old, James surpassed the previous mark held by Karl Malone, who recorded a triple double at 40 years and 127 days during the 2003-04 season. The performance further extends James’ legacy in his 23rd NBA season, already the longest career in league history.

James set the tone early, scoring 14 points in the first quarter as the Lakers built a double digit lead. By the end of the third quarter, he had 22 points and 12 assists, controlling pace and spacing while Dallas struggled defensively. He secured his 10th rebound with 2:06 remaining before checking out to a standing ovation.

The latest timeline of James’ season underscores his continued production despite increased workload management. He recently posted another triple double on Feb. 1, 2025, and will appear in his 22nd NBA All Star Game this weekend. No player in league history has combined that level of longevity with sustained All NBA caliber output.

The Lakers improved to 7-4 over their last 11 games, strengthening their position in the Western Conference playoff race. Rui Hachimura added 21 points, while Austin Reaves returned from health maintenance with 18 points and 6 assists. The team’s offensive efficiency reflected improved ball movement and transition scoring, key areas of emphasis under first year coach JJ Redick.

Dallas, meanwhile, dropped its ninth straight game, marking the franchise’s longest losing streak in 28 seasons. Naji Marshall and Max Christie each scored 19 points, but the Mavericks were without multiple key contributors. Luka Doncic, who is currently with the Lakers after last season’s blockbuster trade, missed his fourth consecutive game with a mild hamstring strain. Redick said the outlook suggests Doncic is expected to return after the All Star break.

Dallas also sat rookie Cooper Flagg due to a sprained foot, an injury that will sideline him for All Star weekend at Intuit Dome. The absence of primary scoring and defensive anchors has significantly impacted the Mavericks’ net rating during the streak, raising questions about lineup stability and rotation adjustments moving forward.

From a broader impact perspective, James’ record reinforces his unprecedented durability. Only a handful of players in NBA history have averaged at least 25 points in their 21st season or later, and none have produced triple doubles at this age. The milestone also strengthens his late career MVP narrative, though official voting trends will depend on team standing and availability.

What this means for the Lakers centers on sustainability. With Doncic nearing a return and role players maintaining efficiency, Los Angeles is positioning itself for a stronger second half surge. The team’s offensive rating has climbed during its recent stretch, reflecting improved spacing and half court execution.

Next steps are immediate. The Mavericks travel to Minnesota on Feb. 20 seeking to halt their slide, while the Lakers host the Clippers on Feb. 20 in a critical Western Conference matchup.