The NBA’s 80th season tips off on October 21, and anticipation is building for another year of history-making performances.
Beyond the usual playoff races, this season carries a unique weight with several all-time greats positioned to reach major statistical milestones.
Records for scoring, assists, and triple-doubles are within reach, ensuring that storylines will unfold nightly across the league.
From LeBron James extending his unprecedented longevity to Stephen Curry pushing the three-point record book even further, the campaign offers fans a chance to witness history in real time.
The spotlight will shine brightest on the veterans, but rising stars chasing all-time lists only add to the intrigue for this season in the NBA.
Photo by Harry How/Getty ImagesLeBron James chasing down field goal record
LeBron James has already cemented himself as the league’s all-time leading scorer, but more history awaits.
He is only 350 field goals away from passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most in NBA history, a mark well within reach given his consistent production.
Entering his 23rd season, LeBron is also set to surpass Vince Carter for most years played and could move into third place on the all-time assists list by overtaking Jason Kidd if he stays healthy.
Kevin Durant and James Harden climb the NBA scoring ladder
Kevin Durant begins a new chapter with the Houston Rockets after this summer’s blockbuster trade.
He sits just 849 points behind Wilt Chamberlain for seventh on the all-time scoring list, a total he can realistically reach if he maintains his usual scoring output.
James Harden also has history in sight. The veteran guard is 603 points from passing Carmelo Anthony for 10th all-time and could even push past Shaquille O’Neal into ninth if he matches last season’s production with the Clippers.
Nikola Jokic and Luka Doncic chase Triple-Double milestones
Nikola Jokic has redefined the stat sheet with his versatility. The three-time MVP is just 18 triple-doubles away from passing Oscar Robertson for second on the all-time list.
If he continues at last year’s pace, Jokic could also become only the second player in league history to hit 200 career triple-doubles.
Luka Doncic, meanwhile, is closing in on his own historic mark. The Lakers star is 18 triple-doubles shy of becoming the seventh player to reach 100, and only 26 away from surpassing his former coach, Jason Kidd, for sixth place all-time.
Stephen Curry eyeing three-point goal
Stephen Curry, the league’s all-time leader in three-pointers, needs 292 more across regular season and playoffs to become the first player to hit 5,000. With his volume shooting, the milestone is likely this season.
Former teammate Klay Thompson, now with Dallas, is also climbing. He needs 108 threes to pass Damian Lillard for fourth all-time.
The 2025-26 campaign is about more than standings. With LeBron, Durant, Jokic and others chasing history, this year promises moments that will shape how the NBA is remembered.