Lebron James sets new benchmark for NBA games played in Lakers' nail-biting victory

LeBron James made history on Saturday by breaking the NBA record for most regular-season games played, as he took to the court for his 1,612th game in the Los Angeles Lakers' thrilling 105-104 win over the Orlando Magic.

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The 41-year-old basketball legend surpassed Robert Parish's mark of 1,611 games, which had stood since his retirement in 1997, by playing in his 1,612th game and cementing his position as one of the greatest players of all time.

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James had previously equalled Parish's record on Thursday with a stunning triple-double in the Lakers' win over the Heat in Miami, setting the stage for his record-breaking appearance on Saturday.

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The Lakers' victory seemed unlikely as Orlando led 104-102 with just three seconds remaining, but a dramatic buzzer-beating three-pointer from Luke Kennard with 0.6 seconds left turned the tide and secured the Lakers' ninth consecutive win.

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The Lakers' winning streak has improved their record to 46-25, strengthening their hold on third place in the Western Conference, with James contributing 12 points, six rebounds, and four assists to the team's effort.

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Luka Doncic was the Lakers' top scorer with 33 points, but his 16th technical foul of the season will result in a suspension, ruling him out of Monday's game against the Detroit Pistons, a setback that Lakers coach JJ Redick hopes to have rescinded.

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Austin Reaves also had a notable performance, scoring 26 points on 10-of-20 shooting, as the Lakers continued their winning streak.

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James, who is playing an unprecedented 23rd season, already holds numerous NBA records, including most points scored, field goals made, and field goals attempted, as well as the longest streak of regular-season games with at least 10 points scored, with an impressive 1,297 games.

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According to James, his preparation for the record-breaking game was no different from his usual routine, stating "it was a regular prep day" and that he was focused on being available for his teammates.

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James reflected on his career, saying "I said the other night, the best thing you can do for your teammates is to be available, and I've tried to be available throughout my career, two decades plus, for my guys."

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With a total of 1,904 games played, including playoff matches, James has solidified his position as the player with the most games played, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's 1,797 appearances and Robert Parish's 1,795 games.