Career Milestones Lakers’ LeBron James Can Reach During 2025-26 Season

LeBron James will return for his 23rd NBA season in 2025-26 with the Los Angeles Lakers, continuing his historic career despite initial offseason speculation about his future when he opted into the final year of his contract. Reports indicate he remains committed to pursuing a fifth championship with the team.

James' longevity is attributed to his rigorous approach to maintaining physical and mental health, allowing him to achieve unprecedented success well into his career. He remains one of the league's most productive players even at this advanced stage.

Several significant milestones are within reach for James this season: he needs 350 field goals to surpass Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the all-time leader in made field goals (having made at least 400 in each recent season). He will also pass Vince Carter for most career seasons played, and is 50 games away from breaking Robert Parish's record for most regular-season games played. Additionally, he trails Reggie Miller by just two three-pointers to move into sixth place on the all-time three-point field goals list, a mark he could achieve on opening night against the Golden State Warriors.

While James has always prioritized playmaking, his scoring accomplishments—including breaking Abdul-Jabbar's scoring record—highlight his offensive impact. His continued evolution as a shooter and sustained passion have drawn admiration from current NBA stars, further solidifying his legacy as one of basketball's greatest players.