LeBron James reveals who could break his NBA scoring record — and it’s not Steph Curry

LeBron James, a living legend of the NBA and widely considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time, is gearing up for what could be his final season in the league. The 40-year-old superstar has exercised his $52.6 million player option with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025–26 season, adding another chapter to an already historic career that includes four championships, multiple MVP awards, and the NBA’s all-time scoring record.

As the league’s elder statesman prepares for his 23rd season, the question on everyone’s mind is whether his iconic scoring record will ever be broken.

Back in 2023, LeBron himself offered his thoughts on who might have the potential to surpass his historic scoring milestone. Surprisingly, his top choice wasn’t longtime rival and Golden State Warriors icon Stephen Curry.

“KD (Kevin Durant) is the first one that comes to mind,” LeBron said at the time. “They don’t call him ‘Easy Money’ and ‘Slim Reaper’ for nothing. He scores effortlessly. His ability to shoot the three-pointer, the mid-range shot, and attack the rim… He also shoots 85–90 percent from the free throw line. Those are the key elements.”

Durant, now 36, has racked up 30,571 career points, placing him eighth on the NBA’s all-time scoring list and second among active players behind LeBron. The two-time NBA champion and former MVP is set to play for the Houston Rockets this upcoming season. However, with over 10,000 points separating him from LeBron, and age no longer on his side, surpassing the record seems unlikely.

38,388 POINTS

LeBron James hits the fadeaway jumper to become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer! #ScoringKing pic.twitter.com/P5LyTZAZn3

— NBA (@NBA) February 8, 2023

Stephen Curry currently sits 24th on the scoring list with 25,386 points, trailing not only Durant but also fellow veterans James Harden and Russell Westbrook. While Curry has claimed four NBA titles with Golden State and is undoubtedly one of the game’s most influential figures, his path to LeBron’s scoring summit appears even more distant.

Unlike Durant, Curry isn’t known for high-volume scoring over long stretches, which could hinder his chances of making a serious run at the record.

Barring the emergence of a future phenom with longevity and elite scoring ability, LeBron’s all-time points record may stand for decades. His rare combination of durability, consistency, and elite performance over two decades has set a nearly unmatchable bar.

Still, LeBron isn’t done yet.

With the 2025–26 season on the horizon, the four-time champion is poised to add to his record, making it even more difficult for any current or future player to catch up.

As the league transitions to a new generation of stars, one thing remains certain — LeBron James’ impact on the game is far from over.

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