Los Angeles Lakers' LeBron James passes Karl Malone for No. 2 on NBA's all-time scoring list

play

In the second quarter against the Washington Wizards, the Los Angeles Lakers star became the NBA's all-time second-leading scorer with a cut to the basket and layup.

James passed Karl Malone with 20 seconds left in the second quarter. James needed 20 points to pass The Mailman, who had 36,928 points in his career.

James now trails only Abdul-Jabbar on the all-time scoring list. His record is 38,387 points.

James played 45 minutes in an overtime win at the Toronto Raptors on Friday night and there was some uncertainty as to whether he would play on Saturday. James was in the starting lineup after he tested his knee before the game.

James was asked if he sees any similarities between himself and Malone, who are both known for their longevity and fitness.

James said that guys who just took care of their bodies for the majority of their career wanted to be available to their teammates. To be available as much as possible is the most important leadership for you. We always tried to be in uniform and make plays, stay in shape, and also be productive on the floor, and we always tried to stay injury-free, as much as possible. Absolutely.

At 37, James is third in the NBA in scoring at 29.7 points per game, behind the Philadelphia 76ers and the Milwaukee Bucks.

As the Lakers fight for a play-in spot, James said he is focused on trying to win more games.

James said that winning is the most important thing to him and that keeping the joy of the game is the other thing he has been able to do. I understand that we are taking a lot of losses this season. The joy of the game is so great.

It is a joy to play the game and it is a joy to go out there and play.