Milestone after milestone. LeBron James‘ whole career has been about breaking records after records. In their last game against the Sacramento Kings, he set a jaw-dropping milestone, becoming the NBA’s all-time leader in total minutes played. It’s wild to think about—a 39-year-old still dominating in his 22nd season. Fast forward to tonight, and the Lakers were back at it, facing the Kings for the second time in three days. From the opening tip, LeBron was locked in, looking more like a player in his prime than someone closing in on 40. He hit nine of his first 11 shots, barely breaking a sweat.

On Saturday, LeBron James hit yet another insane milestone. When he scored his 10th point, he surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the NBA’s all-time leader in games with 10+ points. That’s right, 1,510 games and counting.

But ‘The Chosen One’ also had some advice for a Kings fan. With 10:17 left in the second quarter and the Lakers up 36-33, Keegan Murray stepped up to the free-throw line. That’s when things took a turn. James wasn’t having it with a fan under the basket. He told him, “Man, you’re drunk. Relax bro… Just watch the game and relax… Over here Sip the f—–g beer and shut the f–k up.” The way he silenced that heckler and then delivered in the clutch? Classic LeBron.

The 4x champion is still one of the best in the NBA, even at 39. His stats are wild—22.6 points, 9.0 assists, 7.9 rebounds, 0.7 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game. Plus, he’s shooting 48.6% from the field and 36.2% from three.

The guy has nothing left to prove, right? But somehow, in every game, he finds a way to break a new record. His drive has largely contributed to the Lakers’ change in form and fortunes.

LeBron James finally knows what works for the Lakers

The Lakers are heating up at just the right time, winning three out of their last four after a rough three-game slide. Sitting at seventh in the jam-packed West, they know the importance of stringing together wins to stay in playoff contention. Recently, the 4x MVP was asked what’s been fueling their surge, and his answer was clear—defense has been key.

“Defensively, I think the No. 1 thing is about all being accountable and holding your guy,” LeBron said.

King James continued, “Understanding that (we can’t) just let blow-bys happen or whatever the case may be, but also being on a string with the other four guys on the floor. And it starts with communication. And I think we’ve been communicating at a high over the last four games. And we’re gonna need to continue that.”

If you’ve been paying attention, you could easily connect that to D’Angelo Russell, who’s had a tough time defensively. It’s no secret that his struggles have led to him coming off the bench. Honestly, the Lakers seem to be clicking better without him in the starting lineup.

The team could still make a move at the trade deadline, especially if they want to level up defensively. D’Lo’s expiring contract makes him a potential trade chip for someone looking to add a player on a short-term deal.

On defense, the LA side is fortunate to have Anthony Davis cleaning up at the rim. The guy’s a shot-blocking machine, and he’s been essential for the Lakers’ defense this season.

LeBron James has been more engaged on that side of the ball, too. ‘The Chosen One’ knows his leadership has to extend beyond offense. It’s clear he’s stepped up, setting the tone for his teammates. Hear me out again- he is going to be 40 in a few days!