PORTLAND, Ore. — LeBron James delivered another spectacular performance on February 21, 2025, scoring 40 points as the Los Angeles Lakers triumphed over the Portland Trail Blazers, 110-102. With this stellar display, James made history by becoming the first player to achieve multiple games scoring 40 or more points after turning 40.
James’ monumental evening included making eight consecutive points late in the fourth quarter, helping the Lakers secure the victory after they faced challenges from the resilient Blazers. Alongside James, Austin Reaves also stepped up, contributing 32 points and showcasing his capability to deliver under pressure.
The Lakers, who needed this win after suffering back-to-back losses, exhibited determination and grit throughout the game. During the final moments, after the Blazers tied the score at 81, Reaves helped regain the lead for Los Angeles with an acrobatic scoop shot. Following Reaves’ basket, James turned up the heat, hitting back-to-back three-pointers followed by a fadeaway jumper, effectively shifting momentum back to the Lakers.
This latest victory pushed the Lakers to 33-21 for the season and maintained their fifth position within the competitive Western Conference. While they celebrated the win, the team also acknowledged the looming road challenges, particularly with their next contest against the Denver Nuggets.
Throughout the contest, James demonstrated why he still commands respect as one of the league's premier players. He finished the night shooting 14-of-24 from the field, along with eight rebounds, four assists, two steals, and one block. Despite recording 11 turnovers, which somewhat marred his stat line, his scoring and leadership proved pivotal.
The Blazers, struggling with their defensive strategies, fell to 23-33 for the season. Deni Avdija was the standout for Portland, scoring 28 points. His all-around play kept the Blazers competitive, but they couldn't fully capitalize on the Lakers’ mistakes late in the game.
Both teams took the court short-handed, with the Lakers missing guard Luka Doncic due to his recovery from a calf strain, which played to Portland's advantage early. They led at times but couldn't hold off the intense final push from Los Angeles.
The rivalry between the Lakers and the Blazers proved thrilling as the game progressed. The Lakers initially took control, leading by as many as 18 points at one juncture. Yet, Portland's resilience was commendable, as they chipped away at the deficit, forcing the Lakers to maintain their focus until the final buzzer.
After the Lakers took the lead, James hit yet another jumper, extending their advantage to 95-86, which set the tone for the closing stretch. Reaves' subsequent free throws solidified the Lakers’ double-digit lead, showcasing his clutch performance at the line.
This game not only highlighted James’ remarkable scoring ability but also solidified his legacy, as reactions from commentators and fans poured in. Skip Bayless remarked, "LEBRON JAMES AT AGE 40 IN YEAR 22 HAS TAKEN OVER THIS BACK-TO-BACK AT PORTLAND IN THE FOURTH QUARTER. WAY TO GO, KING. NOW TAKE THIS HOME.”
Social media erupted with praise for James, with numerous analysts and enthusiasts emphasizing his historic achievement of scoring 40 points, especially considering the pressure and fatigue of playing back-to-back games. StatMamba noted, "LeBron James is the first player in NBA history with multiple 40-PT games after turning 40."
It was not just about the points for James; this night was also about resilience and leadership as he continues to defy age and expectations. With the postseason aspirations on the horizon, the Lakers are hopeful James' form will inspire his teammates to maintain their competitive edge.
With his performance marking the second of back-to-back games, which previously saw him score 26 points against the Charlotte Hornets, James’ condition has become the center of attention. Commentators also noted his impressive ability to recover and deliver at such high levels physically, even at 40 years old.
The Lakers will enjoy a brief respite before their upcoming contest against the Denver Nuggets, who have been dominant lately. Meanwhile, the Blazers will host the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday night as they attempt to regroup from the defeat against Los Angeles.
LeBron James remains the heart of the Lakers’ campaign and continues to provide unforgettable moments on the basketball court, proving once again why he is regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.