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The LA Lakers gave LeBron James the opportunity to address the crowd before their game against the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday. James is fresh off becoming the NBA's all-time leading scorer, breaking Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's record two days ago.
In the pregame ceremony to commemorate his accomplishment, James acknowledged the legendary players who inspired him throughout his career. He discussed how Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Allen Iverson and Kobe Bryant were all positive influences on him.
"I had dreams of being able one day to be able to throw no look passes like Magic Johnson," James said. "To be able to shoot the fadeaway like Michael Jordan. To be able to have a crossover like Allen Iverson. To be able to have the afro and jumper, in the dunk contest like Kobe Bryant."
LeBron James was joined in the pregame ceremony by his family. His mother Gloria, his wife Savannah, and his three children, Bronny, Bryce and Zhuri, were there to support him.
It has been an amazing journey for "The King." Now that the scoring record is his, it's probably time for James and the LA Lakers to pursue a playoff spot. The Lakers front office was very active at the trade deadline.
LeBron James out against Milwaukee Bucks
LeBron James was ruled out for the LA Lakers' matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks. James is suffering from a sore left ankle, which has been bothering him for most of the season.
It's a well-earned break for "The King", as he had to exert more effort during his chase of the scoring record. It's also a precaution, as the Lakers would need the same effort from James in their pursuit of a possible playoff or even a play-in spot.
The LA Lakers are 13th in the Western Conference with a record of 25-30. They are just four games behind the sixth spot and two games behind the final play-in spot.
The front office was very active in the trade market, acquiring several important players. New faces for the Lakers include D'Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley, Jarred Vanderbilt, Davon Reed and Mo Bamba. It will be interesting to see if the Lakers can make a run and end up in the playoffs.
