What JJ Redick feels is “extraordinary” after LeBron James’ triple-double

LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the visiting Dallas Mavericks 124-104 on Thursday night, leaving the All-Star break on a high note. But after the Lakers’ win, the number one story in everyone’s mind was another career milestone for LeBron James became the oldest player in NBA history to get a triple-double.

After the Lakers’ victory, the head coach JJ Redick talked about what really stood out to him about LeBron James in the midst of a history-making triple-double.

“I don’t take for granted how good he is. I recognize that on a daily basis. I think he goes back to what I’ve said on numerous occasions. What’s more remarkable is how much he cares in his 23rd season,” Redick said. “He’s going to get another oldest player to do X, I, Z… he’s going to further solidify his scoring record. He’s going to do all those things. It’s really just the day-to-day factor of professionalism and care that he shows, that’s the most amazing thing… .he’s got a 23-year-old base version of him, but there’s basically a different version. Outstanding.”

Before Thursday, former NBA star Karl Malone held the record for oldest player to record a triple-double. Malone accomplished that feat at age 40 in his final season in the league with the Lakers no less. Mailman had 10 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists in a November 2023 win against the San Antonio Spurs.

That the record now belongs James, at age 41, is in the midst of an unprecedented 23rd year in the NBA. Against the Mavericks, he finished with 28 points, 10 rebounds and 12 assists. Despite James’ play on the court, which remains at an All-Star level, his energy and spirit continue to lift the team.

“From a coaching perspective, he’s done everything that we’ve asked of him and everything that should realistically be expected of a guy at 23 years old. I think for him, he spends an inordinate amount of time preparing his body to be able to play at this stage of his career,” Redick said. “In addition to just energy, he will always do what is necessary to prepare his body for the game.”

After missing the Lakers’ loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday, James is no longer eligible for postseason awards and accolades. It was his 18th missed game, putting him just shy of the NBA’s required minimum of 65 games to be named to the All-NBA selection.

But James was still named an All-Starhis 22nd consecutive selection, albeit not as a starter. Entering Thursday’s game, he had appeared in 35 games, logging just over 33 minutes per game. He averaged 21.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, 6.9 assists and 1.1 steals on 50.2 percent shooting from the field, 30.6 percent from the 3-point line and