‘Winning is More Important Than Points’ – Los Angeles Lakers Star Applauds LeBron James for Taking Huge Sacrifice Vs. Toronto Raptors

With the game tied at 120, James had a chance to win the game for the Los Angeles Lakers with a field goal. However, instead of driving all the way to the basket for a layup, he drew multiple defenders and passed the ball to an open Rui Hachimura, who hit the game-winning corner triple at the buzzer.

“I was just trying to get Bron the ball in a situation that he’s been in a million times. For all the people that have killed him his whole career for making the right play, if he shot that one, they would’ve said he should’ve passed it. If he passed it, they would say he should have shot it,” Austin Reaves said of James via Spectrum Sportsnet.

Dec 4, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) celebrates with forward Jake LaRavia (12) and guard Austin Reaves (15) after scoring the game-winning buzzer-beating basket against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

“You tip your hat to a guy who just cares about winning and making the right play; that’s what he’s done his whole career. Thankful for him, obviously, that 10-point streak ends, but I guarantee if you ask him, winning is more important than points,” he added.

Los Angeles Lakers News: LeBron James addresses end of legendary scoring streak

LeBron James’ historic 10-point streak (1,297 games) ended last night, as he finished with eight points, six rebounds, and 11 assists on 4-for-17 shooting from the field in 36 minutes. But instead of being disappointed, the four-time league MVP was more than happy to get the W.

Dec 4, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts after a win over the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

“Just playing the game the right way, you always make the right play. That has been my MO, that is how I was taught the game, I have done that my whole career,” James said via Spectrum Sportsnet. “I know it is a numbers game. We got a four on three, an advantage, and I am trying to put the ball on time, on target, right into Rui’s pocket, and he knocked it down.”

“This is my sixth game. I have never missed a whole training camp and preseason before, let alone the first 14 games of the season. So I am still figuring out my rhythm, figuring out everything offensively. I know I can make an impact when I am out there, but I am still feeling it out,” he added.