LeBron James, playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time NBA field goals record on March 6, 2026, in a game against the Denver Nuggets. Needing only three field goals to become the all-time leader, James achieved this feat early in the first quarter with a signature fadeaway jumper that excited fans and commentators alike.
Record-Breaking Performance Marred by Injury
After setting the historic milestone with 15,842 career field goals made, James continued to add four more successful shots before a hard fall left him injured. He landed roughly and hurt his left elbow during the game, a setback that forced him out of the lineup. The veteran athlete also manages arthritis in his left foot, complicating his recovery further.
Historical Context: A Career Defined by Consistency and Excellence
LeBron James now holds the NBA record for the most field goal attempts as well, with 31,285 attempts throughout his career. He stands alongside Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as one of only two players in league history to make over 15,000 field goals. Both players are part of an elite group of four who have surpassed 12,500 made field goals. James led the league in successful field goals five times in standout seasons spanning from 2004 to 2017, including an impressive 857 field goals in 2017.
Current Status and Team Adaptations Amid Injury Concerns
James’ ability to extend this record depends on his recovery, which remains uncertain due to a left elbow contusion sustained during the recent game and existing arthritis in his foot.
“We’ll see what happens over the next couple of days,”
James said after the game.
“Hopefully, I’ll wake up and it doesn’t feel too much worse than it is now. Or if it feels better, that would be great. So it’s day-to-day. We’ll see what happens.”
In James’ absence, the Lakers have maintained strong performances, posting a 12-7 record without their star player. Rui Hachimura has stepped into the lineup, contributing to wins over the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks, showing depth in the team’s roster.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Games and Implications for the Lakers
The Lakers are scheduled to host the Minnesota Timberwolves on March 10, followed by a home game against the Chicago Bulls on March 13. James’ status for these games remains uncertain, but his recovery will be crucial for the team’s ongoing playoff aspirations and his pursuit of further extending the NBA field goals record.
LEBRON JAMES.
MOST FIELD GOALS MADE IN NBA HISTORY.
— NBA (@NBA) March 6, 2026
