LeBron James had jokes and praise in copious measure heading his way from Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick. Playing his 23rd season in the NBA, James defied Father Time once more when he shot lights out from the field against the Houston Rockets to help the Lakers win 124-116 at the Toyota Center on Wednesday.
Lakers Coach JJ Redick Trolls LeBron James After Unbelievable Shooting Night
Speaking to reporters after the game, Redick didn’t miss a beat to roast the Lakers’ superstar after his efficient shooting night. “The one shot he missed, he was trying to foul bait,” the former sharpshooter said, per The Athletic’s Dan Woike.
James’ 13-of-14 shooting from the field also included six powerful slams, as the veteran forward showcased his range of shots from the floor and his explosive athleticism. His 92.9% tied the best scoring field-goal percentage for the four-time NBA champion.
“Look, he was awesome tonight. I think part of the evolution of him on this team has just been his patience,” Redick added. “His patience: knowing he’s going to get the ball and he’s going to have transition opportunities and he’s going to have plays called for him.”
James finished his evening with 30 points (which also included two daggers from deep in as many attempts), five rebounds, two assists, one steal, and a block in 34 minutes of action. Luka Dončić had another phenomenal double-double night with 40 points and 10 assists. Deandre Ayton and Austin Reaves chipped in with 16 and 14 points, respectively.
30 PTS (13-14 FGM)
6 POWERFUL SLAMS 📹⤵️A highlight-reel performance in his 23rd season. https://t.co/yI9x0yDl2E pic.twitter.com/MXJpga8FVE
— NBA (@NBA) March 19, 2026
The 41-year-old has been a complementary player to the backcourt duo of Dončić and Reaves over the last few games, and that has seen him make a major impact on both ends of the court. If it was a full-tilt dive earlier this month, it was a clinical shooting night on Wednesday.
James continues to be in solid form this season, averaging 21.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 6.8 assists while shooting 51.4% from the field and 31.8% from deep. His immense experience and versatility have boosted the Lakers’ recent successful stretch.
At the time of writing, James and the Lakers are third in the West with a 44-25 record, courtesy of their seven-game winning streak. The challenge to defend the streak comes Thursday after they flew early in the morning to face the Miami Heat on the second night of a challenging back-to-back.
There is no indication yet whether James will play the game on Thursday. With the All-Star forward battling elbow soreness, there is every possibility the Lakers will rest their superstar.
