LeBron James Adds Another Playoff History Milestone to His Name, Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen Follow

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LeBron James Adds Another Playoff History Milestone to His Name, Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen Follow

Originally posted on AirJordanChronicles
By Nandjee Ranjan | Last updated Apr 30, 2026 2:07 AM ET

Even at 41, LeBron James isn’t showing any signs of slowing down. After leading the Lakers to a 3-0 start over the Houston Rockets, James set a record that might just take decades for another player to reach.

According to ESPN Reporter Dave McMenamin, after his first steal in the Lakers vs. the Houston Rockets Game 5, James became the first player in NBA history to record 500 career steals in the playoffs. Already at the top of the list in most steals in the playoffs. James recorded his 500th steal in the 297th playoff game.

Right after James, the second and third places are held by Chicago Bulls teammates, Scottie Pippen and Michael Jordan, respectively. Pippen recorded 395 steals in 208 playoff games, and Jordan’s 376 steals came in just 179 playoff games.

Some more playoff history for LeBron James: With his first steal tonight, he reached 500 for his postseason career. He's in 1st place all-time, followed by Scottie Pippen (395) and Michael Jordan (376)
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 30, 2026

LeBron added to his numbers with a second steal. At the moment, James is the best-performing Lakers star, with 14 points, 1 rebound, and 6 assists.

However, with the Rockets leading 76-65 at the end of the third quarter, it looks like the series will head to Game Six.

LeBron James opens up about Michael Jordan GOAT

In the last few years, the GOAT debate between LeBron and Jordan has not only intensified, but the gap has immensely narrowed. However, when James was finally asked about the debate, he struck down any idea of comparison between them, alluding to their positions and style of play.

“I never have compared myself to MJ because our games are totally different,” James told McMenamin. “I have been a point-forward/forward-point my whole life. I have always looked for the pass. MJ kind of looked for the shot. Not kind of, he did. He looked for the shot.”

Jordan and LeBron indeed are two different players. Jordan for the best shot he could make, even in crunch time, and James always looked for the best play he could make, even with the game on the line.

This article first appeared on AirJordanChronicles and was syndicated with permission.

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