Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James knows he's one of the best scorers in NBA history, even if some pundits won't include him in the ranks of the elites. He has the numbers to back it up.

James averaged 25.0 points per game during the 2020-21 regular season. It is his 17th consecutive season averaging at least 25 points per game, the most in NBA history. Hallowed scoring legends such as Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Kevin Durant lag behind with 12 seasons of at least 25 points per contest.

LeBron reacted to the achievement Monday, suggesting his pass-first mentality has somewhat deflected from his ability to score at a high level. But the Lakers veteran is just fine with that:

“Since I was 19 years old!” James tweeted about the scoring streak. “And I’m a pass first guy. Always been. That’s why I’m never mentioned with the greats of scoring huh?? That’s perfect cause I’d rather keep it that way!”

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The Lakers star's total skill set and basketball IQ do tend to define his legacy. However, he has shown a pretty consistent evolution as a scorer during his esteemed career.

James has made a point of getting to the post in the past couple years and finishing via a variety of fadeaways and drop-steps. He has also added a step-back 3 to his repertoire. In short, he's far more than just a physical specimen who bullies his way to the rim, though James is still quite capable of doing that, as well.

It seems likely James' full scoring arsenal will have to be on display as the Lakers prepare for their play-in matchup with scoring champion Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors.