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The Lakers star knew his monumental streak of reaching double digits was in danger. In that crucial moment, though, it didn't concern him.

The smart move involved passing the rock – and he executed. Consequently, the unprecedented record came to an end.

LeBron's staggering streak of 1,297 consecutive NBA regular season outings scoring at least ten was snapped during a recent game, when the league's career points king was limited to eight total points in the Lakers' close triumph versus Toronto. He made the game-winning assist, finding teammate Rui Hachimura to hit a three-pointer to win the game.

“Nothing,” James replied in response regarding the conclusion of his run. “The team got the victory.”

An Unselfish Play Secures Victory

James could have tried to secure the contest – and preserved the streak – on the final possession, instead, he decided to pass to his teammate on the wing. Hachimura sank it, prompting James raised his arms with his hands in the air.

“Just playing the game the right way. Always make the smart play,” James remarked. “That’s just been my M.O.. It's how I was instructed the game. That's what I've done throughout my career.”

“LeBron is acutely aware of how many points he's scored at any point,” commented the team's head coach the coach. “He did it as he has done countless times.”

The Streak's End Game

James re-entered the game one last time with just over five minutes left, the outcome and the streak up for grabs. He had a mere six points from 3 for 15 from the field then.

He managed a basket at under two minutes remaining to tie the game then missed a shot at one minute to go which could have gotten him to ten points.

He avoided taking another shot – even though he had a chance. A teammate found him as time wound down, yet LeBron opted to dish it off instead.

The spirits of the game, if you approach it the proper way, they often reward you,” Redick stated.

A Look Back at a Monumental Record

This incredible run began back in January 2007. It was, by far the most extended streak of its kind the league has ever seen: Michael Jordan previously held a streak of 866 straight double-digit scoring games, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar had 787 such games, and Karl Malone was fourth on the list with 575.

LeBron is such an unselfish player,” remarked teammate Jake LaRavia.

He focuses on playing the game of basketball. The chance was there but due to who he is on the court and his character as an individual, he chose the unselfish play, dished to Hachimura and we won the game.”

Getting to ten points was usually an afterthought long before the final period. Throughout his run, he had achieved ten points entering the fourth 1,266 times prior to Thursday.

However, two such single-digit games after three periods took place recently: He recorded nine points going into the fourth against Dallas last week, followed by six going into the fourth against Phoenix earlier in the week.

James managed to extend the streak in the Phoenix game. One game later, it concluded – but he still rejoiced regardless.

My focus is to make the best play. That’s automatic, regardless of outcome,” James declared. When you make the smart play, the game gods are always returning the favor.”