LeBron James recorded his fourth consecutive triple-double – the first time he has done so in his career – as the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the San Antonio Spurs 120-115 in the NBA Cup.

The 39-year-old scored 15 points, 15 rebounds and 12 assists as the Lakers began defending their title.

It is the first time in James’ 22-year NBA career that he has recorded a triple-double in four consecutive games, reaching double figures in three of five statistical categories.

That’s despite the four-time NBA champion criticizing his own performance against the Spurs.

“The best thing about my game is that I can have (no) rhythm offensively and still have an impact on the game,” James said.

“I was able to do that tonight.”

James’ achievement means he has tied the Lakers’ franchise record for consecutive triple-doubles, set by Russell Westbrook in 2021 and Magic Johnson in 1987.

The Lakers won the first NBA Cup in 2023, beating the Indiana Pacers 123-109 in the finals.