Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James continues his ascent in the NBA’s all-time categories. On Monday, the 35-year-old forward moved up the ladder of career made free throws, overtaking the legendary Michael Jordan for fifth place.
James notched his 7,328th free-throw made in the Lakers’ game against the Phoenix Suns at Staples Center.
Congrats to @KingJames of the @Lakers for moving up to 5th on the all-time Free Throws Made list! #LakeShow pic.twitter.com/EA8IVXQ2yy
— NBA (@NBA) February 11, 2020
With LeBron James deferring to his teammates more and leading the league in assists this year, his free throw attempts are down from last year. He goes to the line 5.4 times per game and is usually good for 3.8 of those attempts. He is draining 69.7 percent of his free-throws, an improvement from last year’s 66.5 percent.
Up next on the list for The King is Oscar Robertson, who drained 7,694 free throws in his 14-year career. With his current pace though, LeBron might not be able to break that record this season.
The late Lakers legend Kobe Bryant is at third all-time with 8,378 made, while another deceased legend Moses Malone is at the second spot with 8,531 makes.
“The Mailman” Karl Malone is still miles ahead of everyone else, draining 9,787 freebies.
Now on his 17th season in the league, James has continued to age like fine wine and is once again in the MVP conversation alongside the likes of Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, Dallas Mavericks youngster Luka Doncic, and Houston Rockets leader James Harden.
Entering Monday’s game against the Suns, James has been averaging 25.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 10.8 assists, while shooting 49 percent from the field and 34.7 percent from 3-point territory.