LeBron James made history on Christmas Day as the Los Angeles Lakers narrowly defeated the Golden State Warriors 115-113 in San Francisco.
Austin Reaves secured the win with a game-winning layup in the final second, helping James, 39, become the NBA’s all-time leader in Christmas Day victories with his 11th win in 19 appearances.
Despite losing Anthony Davis to a twisted left ankle just eight minutes into the game, the Lakers managed to prevail.
“It’s always difficult to play without AD, so our job becomes even more critical—we all have to step up,” said James, who tallied 31 points. “Everyone chipped in, especially on defense, because AD is our anchor. I thought we did a great job playing as a team, executing offensively, and getting timely stops against a strong offensive opponent.”
The Lakers maintained control for most of the game but faced a late rally from the Warriors.
Leading 109-100 with 1:30 left, Stephen Curry sparked a Warriors’ surge, scoring eight points during a 13-4 run, including two three-pointers with 12.2 and 7.6 seconds remaining to tie the game.
Reaves, however, responded with a decisive drive to the basket, finishing with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. Curry led all scorers with 38 points, including eight three-pointers, tying the NBA Christmas Day record.
Other Christmas Day Highlights
Victor Wembanyama shone in his Christmas Day debut, posting 42 points, 18 rebounds, four assists, and four blocks. However, his effort wasn’t enough as the San Antonio Spurs fell 117-114 to the New York Knicks.
Mikal Bridges led the Knicks with a season-high 41 points—the second-highest Christmas Day total in franchise history, behind Bernard King’s 60-point performance in 1984.
Meanwhile, Anthony Edwards scored 26 points to lead the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 105-99 victory over the Dallas Mavericks. The Mavericks were without star Luka Dončić in the second half after he suffered a calf strain late in the second quarter.
