The Los Angeles Lakers got exactly what they needed heading into the All-Star break: a dominant 124-104 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night, February 12, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena — powered by a historic performance from LeBron James.
LeBron began the game by scoring or assisting on the Lakers’ first 23 points of the opening quarter — the longest such streak to start a game in his 23-year career, per ESPN Research. He finished with his first triple-double of the season: 28 points, 12 assists, and 10 rebounds — becoming the oldest player in NBA history to record a triple-double at 41 years, 44 days old, surpassing Karl Malone (40 years, 127 days).
“I’m more appreciative of moments like this in my career, understanding where I’m at,” James said after the game, receiving a thunderous ovation from the home crowd when he grabbed his 10th rebound with 2:05 left to secure the record. “I’m at the later stage of my journey, so definitely taking it in a little bit more.”
The win snapped a two-game skid and lifted the Lakers to 33-21, fifth in the Western Conference. LeBron was removed from the injury report earlier in the day (left foot arthritis) and played in the final game before the break — ensuring he is on track to participate in Sunday’s All-Star Game in Los Angeles.
Historic All-Star Streak Continues
At 41, James is the first player ever to earn 22 consecutive All-Star selections — a streak spanning three decades and widening the gap over every longevity benchmark in league history.
Only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar had previously earned multiple All-Star nods after age 40. James now has three beyond that milestone. This year he was named a Western Conference reserve — ending his record run of 21 straight All-Star starts — but the significance of another appearance remains massive.
“No, not at all. I’m always grateful,” James said in January when asked about the starter snub. “If I’m there, I’ll be there in attendance. If I’m not, I know exactly what I’ll be doing. I’m good either way.”
LeBron’s All-Star History in LA
This weekend’s All-Star Game returns to Los Angeles (hosted by the crosstown Clippers). The last time LeBron played in an All-Star Game in the city — 2018 — he was named MVP.
“He will be at the All-Star Game,” ESPN’s Dave McMenamin confirmed. “He hasn’t played as much in recent years. Last year, he didn’t play at all, and the two years before that, he played about 15 minutes. I wouldn’t expect a full allotment of minutes, but getting out there in L.A., you never know.”
LeBron sat out the entire 2025 All-Star Game due to a late-announced foot injury — a decision that drew criticism from former players like Kendrick Perkins, Draymond Green, Vince Carter, and Jalen Rose, who argued it deprived another player (like Norman Powell) of a deserved opportunity.
Fatigue & Honesty Post-Game
James has been open about the physical toll at 41. After Monday’s loss to OKC, he admitted: “I’m kind of tired… I’m 41. My patience for irritation is being very, very low as the days go on.”
He sat out Tuesday’s blowout loss to the Spurs (with Austin Reaves and Luka Dončić also sidelined), but was cleared for Thursday — a sign he’s managing his body carefully while still producing at an All-Star level.
The All-Star break offers a brief recharge before the Lakers resume on February 20 against the Clippers. James will play limited minutes Sunday in the All-Star Game, but the milestone — and the chance to perform in LA — adds extra meaning.
Lakers fans, how special is it to see LeBron make history at 41 with another triple-double and his 22nd All-Star nod? Do you expect him to play meaningful minutes Sunday, or keep it light? And is this the kind of performance that makes you believe he’s got at least one more big run left in him? Drop your thoughts below — All-Star Weekend is here!