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LeBron James, often hailed as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, has left an indelible mark on the NBA with his remarkable scoring ability and unparalleled versatility. Throughout his illustrious career, James has consistently led his teams both on and off the court. Let's delve into each season, highlighting LeBron's stats, his closest scoring counterpart, and the performance of both the player and the team.

2003-04 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 20.9 PPG

2. Carlos Boozer - 15.5 PPG

In the 2003-04 NBA season, LeBron James embarked on his highly anticipated rookie campaign with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite his youth and inexperience, James quickly asserted himself as a force to be reckoned with in the league. Averaging 20.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, James showcased his remarkable skill set and basketball IQ, earning widespread acclaim from fans and pundits alike.

However, the Cavaliers struggled to find consistent success, finishing the season with a record of 35-47 and failing to qualify for the playoffs. Despite the team's shortcomings, James' exceptional individual performance earned him the NBA Rookie of the Year award and laid the foundation for what would become a legendary career.

2004-05 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 27.2 PPG

2. Zydrunas Ilgauskas - 16.9 PPG

In the 2004-05 NBA season, LeBron James continued his ascent to superstardom, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers with an impressive average of 27.2 points per game. His scoring prowess was on full display as he showcased his versatility and dominance on the court. Zydrunas Ilgauskas emerged as the team's second-leading scorer, providing valuable contributions with 16.9 points per game.

Once again, although LeBron's season was a stellar one, the Cavaliers fell short of a playoff berth, finishing the season with a record of 42-40. However, James' remarkable performance earned him his first All-Star selection, further solidifying his status as one of the league's premier talents.

2005-06 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 31.4 PPG

2. Zydrunas Ilgauskas - 15.6 PPG

In the 2005-06 NBA season, LeBron James soared to new heights, electrifying audiences with his unparalleled scoring ability. Averaging a staggering 31.4 points per game, James dominated the court, showcasing his versatility and sheer determination to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers. Alongside him, Zydrunas Ilgauskas provided crucial support, contributing 15.6 points per game, as the duo formed a formidable scoring tandem for the team.

Despite their offensive prowess, the Cavaliers faced a formidable challenge in the playoffs, ultimately falling short in the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Detroit Pistons. However, James' remarkable season was a testament to his relentless work ethic and unmatched skill set. His performance earned him his second All-Star selection and his first scoring title, solidifying his status as one of the league's premier talents.

2006-07 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 27.3 PPG

2. Larry Hughes - 14.9 PPG

In the 2006-07 NBA season, LeBron James continued to assert his dominance as one of the league's premier scorers. With an average of 27.3 points per game, James showcased his versatility and ability to take over games with his scoring prowess. Despite facing increased defensive attention, James remained the focal point of the Cleveland Cavaliers' offense. Larry Hughes emerged as the team's second-leading scorer, contributing 14.9 points per game.

The regular season saw the Cavaliers finish with a record of 50-32, securing a playoff berth. In the postseason, James elevated his game once again, leading the Cavaliers to the NBA Finals for the first time in franchise history. Although they were ultimately swept by the San Antonio Spurs, James' remarkable season earned him his third All-Star selection and further solidified his place among the NBA's elite.

2007-08 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 30.0 PPG

2. Zydrunas Ilgauskas - 14.1 PPG

In the 2007-08 NBA season, LeBron James showcased his scoring prowess once again, averaging an impressive 30.0 points per game. James continued to dominate the court with his versatile scoring ability, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers' offense with authority. Zydrunas Ilgauskas provided valuable support as the team's second-leading scorer, contributing 14.1 points per game.

The regular season saw the Cavaliers finish with a record of 45-37, securing a playoff berth. Despite their postseason efforts, the Cavaliers fell short in the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Boston Celtics. However, James' exceptional season earned him his fourth All-Star selection and further solidified his reputation as one of the most dominant players in the league.

2008-09 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 28.4 PPG

2. Mo Williams - 17.8 PPG

In the 2008-09 NBA season, LeBron James delivered a masterful performance, solidifying his status as one of the most dominant players in the league. With averages of 28.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game, James showcased his unparalleled skill set and leadership on the court. His exceptional play propelled the Cleveland Cavaliers to a league-best 66-16 record, firmly establishing them as championship contenders.

At the helm of the Cavaliers' success was LeBron James, who not only led the team in scoring but also served as its heart and soul. His remarkable contributions did not go unnoticed, as he was awarded the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for the first time in his career. The MVP honor was a testament to James' incredible impact on the game and his ability to elevate his team to new heights.

2009-10 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 29.7 PPG

2. Mo Williams - 15.8 PPG

The 2009-10 NBA season marked the culmination of LeBron James' tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and it was a season filled with individual accolades and team success. James put together a remarkable campaign, averaging 29.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game, solidifying his status as one of the most dominant players in the league.

In addition to his stellar statistical performance, James' leadership propelled the Cavaliers to a stellar 61-21 record, securing the top seed in the Eastern Conference. His impact on the court was undeniable, as he led the team in scoring, rebounding, and assists, showcasing his remarkable versatility and basketball IQ.

James was awarded the NBA Most Valuable Player award for the second consecutive season. Their playoff run ended in disappointment as they were eliminated by the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

2010-11 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 26.7 PPG

2. Dwyane Wade - 25.5 PPG

LeBron James continued to shine as one of the league's premier scorers in the 2010-11 NBA season, averaging 26.7 points per game for the Miami Heat. James' versatility and leadership were on full display as he guided the Heat's offense with precision and determination. Dwyane Wade emerged as a potent scoring threat, providing invaluable support with an average of 25.5 points per game.

Miami Heat's regular-season success propelled them to the postseason, where they faced tough competition en route to the NBA Finals. Although they fell short against the Dallas Mavericks, James' exceptional season earned him his seventh consecutive All-Star selection and further solidified his status as one of the NBA's elite players.

2011-12 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 27.1 PPG

2. Dwyane Wade - 22.1 PPG

During the 2011-12 NBA season, LeBron James led the Miami Heat to a formidable 46-20 record, securing the second seed in the Eastern Conference. His scoring prowess was on full display, averaging 27.1 points per game, while Dwyane Wade contributed 22.1 points per game to the team's offensive output.

In the playoffs, the Heat dominated their opponents, advancing to the NBA Finals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder. LeBron James delivered stellar performances throughout the Finals series, showcasing his all-around excellence on both ends of the court. With an average of 28.6 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game in the Finals, James led the Heat to victory in five games. His outstanding contributions earned him the NBA Finals MVP award.

2012-13 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 26.8 PPG

2. Dwyane Wade - 21.2 PPG

LeBron James continued his dominant play for the Miami Heat in the 2012-13 NBA season, leading the team with an impressive 26.8 points per game. Alongside him, Dwyane Wade contributed 21.2 points per game, forming a formidable scoring duo for the Heat.

The Heat finished the regular season with a strong 66-16 record, securing the top seed in the Eastern Conference. LeBron James' exceptional performance throughout the season earned him his fourth NBA Most Valuable Player award, further cementing his status as one of the greatest players of all time.

In the playoffs, the Heat marched through the Eastern Conference, defeating the Milwaukee Bucks (4-0), Chicago Bulls (4-1), and Indiana Pacers (4-3) to advance to the NBA Finals for the third consecutive year. Facing off against the San Antonio Spurs in a thrilling Finals series, LeBron James delivered clutch performances to help the Heat secure the championship in a dramatic seven-game series.

2013-14 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 27.1 PPG

2. Dwyane Wade - 19.0 PPG

The 2013-14 NBA season showcased LeBron James' scoring prowess as he led the Miami Heat with an impressive 27.1 points per game. His dynamic offensive skills were complemented by Dwyane Wade's contributions, who provided valuable support with 19.0 points per game.

His leadership on the court guided the Heat to a solid 54-28 record, securing the second seed in the Eastern Conference. However, the Heat's playoff journey ended in disappointment as they were defeated by the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals, falling short of their championship aspirations and eventually leading to his exit from the team.

2014-15 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 25.3 PPG

2. Kyrie Irving - 21.7 PPG

The 2014-15 NBA season witnessed LeBron James' triumphant return to the Cleveland Cavaliers after his tenure with the Miami Heat. Leading the Cavaliers in scoring with an average of 25.3 points per game, James once again demonstrated his offensive prowess. Alongside him, Kyrie Irving contributed 21.7 points per game, forming a formidable scoring duo for the Cavaliers. Despite encountering challenges during the regular season, including injuries to key players, the Cavaliers secured a commendable 53-29 record, clinching the second seed in the Eastern Conference.

In the playoffs, the Cavaliers dominated the Eastern Conference, dispatching the Boston Celtics (4-0), Chicago Bulls (4-2), and Atlanta Hawks (4-0) to advance to the NBA Finals. However, they faced a formidable opponent in the Golden State Warriors, ultimately falling short in a hard-fought six-game series.

2015-16 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 25.3 PPG

2. Kyrie Irving - 19.6 PPG

The 2015-16 NBA season was another remarkable campaign for LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Leading the team with an average of 25.3 points per game, LeBron James continued to showcase his scoring prowess and leadership on the court. Kyrie Irving also made significant contributions with 19.6 points per game, forming a potent offensive duo alongside James.

In the playoffs, the Cavaliers stormed through the Eastern Conference, dispatching the Detroit Pistons (4-0), Atlanta Hawks (4-0), and Toronto Raptors (4-2) to advance to the NBA Finals for the second consecutive year.

Facing the reigning champion Golden State Warriors, the Cavaliers found themselves trailing 3-1 in the series. However, LeBron James delivered a series of outstanding performances, including a historic Game 7 performance, to lead the Cavaliers to victory and capture their first NBA championship in franchise history. James' exceptional play earned him unanimous NBA Finals MVP honors, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players of all time.

2016-17 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 26.4 PPG

2. Kyrie Irving - 25.2 PPG

The 2016-17 NBA season was yet another stellar campaign for LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Leading the team in scoring with an average of 26.4 points per game, LeBron James continued to demonstrate his offensive prowess and leadership on the court. Kyrie Irving also made significant contributions with 25.2 points per game, forming a dynamic scoring duo alongside James.

Once again, the Cavaliers proved their dominance in the Eastern Conference, sweeping the Indiana Pacers (4-0), defeating the Toronto Raptors (4-0), and overcoming the Boston Celtics (4-1) to advance to the NBA Finals for the third consecutive year. Facing the Golden State Warriors once again, the Cavaliers put up a valiant effort but were ultimately defeated in five games.

2017-18 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 27.5 PPG

2. Kevin Love - 17.6 PPG

The 2017-18 NBA season presented new challenges for LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers, particularly following the departure of Kyrie Irving. Despite the absence of Irving, LeBron James continued to lead the team in scoring with an impressive average of 27.5 points per game, showcasing his remarkable offensive skills and leadership on the court. Kevin Love emerged as the second-leading scorer for the Cavaliers, contributing 17.6 points per game and providing valuable support in the absence of Irving.

The Cavaliers faced adversity throughout the regular season, finishing with a 50-32 record and securing the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference. In the playoffs, the Cavaliers navigated through tough competition in the Eastern Conference to advance to the NBA Finals for the fourth consecutive year. However, they faced a formidable opponent in the Golden State Warriors and were ultimately defeated in a four-game sweep.

2018-19 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 27.4 PPG

2. Kyle Kuzma - 18.7 PPG

Transitioning to the 2018-19 NBA season, LeBron James made a monumental move from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Los Angeles Lakers, marking a significant chapter in his illustrious career. Despite the change in scenery, James continued to assert his dominance on the court, leading the Lakers in scoring with an impressive average of 27.4 points per game.

His versatility and leadership remained unmatched, even in a new environment. Kyle Kuzma emerged as the second-leading scorer for the Lakers, contributing 18.7 points per game and showing promise for the future of the team.

The Lakers faced various challenges throughout the regular season, finishing with a 37-45 record and missing out on the playoffs.

2019-20 NBA Season

1. Anthony Davis - 26.1 PPG

2. LeBron James - 25.3 PPG

The 2019-20 NBA season marked a transformative period for the Los Angeles Lakers as they acquired Anthony Davis to join forces with LeBron James. With Davis leading the team in scoring with 26.1 points per game and LeBron contributing 25.3 points per game, the duo propelled the Lakers to new heights.

During the regular season, the Lakers dominated with a 52-19 record, securing the top seed in the Western Conference. In the playoffs, they showcased their championship aspirations, defeating tough opponents to reach the NBA Finals.

Facing the Miami Heat in the Finals, the Lakers secured a convincing victory in six games, with LeBron James earning the NBA Finals MVP award. This championship victory further solidified LeBron's legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history and delivered a long-awaited title to the Lakers organization.

2020-21 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 25.0 PPG

2. Anthony Davis - 21.8 PPG

The 2020-21 NBA season saw the Los Angeles Lakers led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis. LeBron James continued to be a dominant force, leading the team in scoring with an average of 25.0 points per game. Anthony Davis also made significant contributions with 21.8 points per game, despite facing some injury setbacks during the season.

The Lakers faced various challenges throughout the regular season, finishing with a 42-30 record and securing the seventh seed in the Western Conference. Despite dealing with injuries to key players, including LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers managed to secure a playoff berth.

In the playoffs, the Lakers faced the Phoenix Suns in the first round but were eliminated in six games, marking an earlier exit than expected for the defending champions.

2021-22 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 30.3 PPG

2. Anthony Davis - 23.2 PPG

The 2021-22 NBA season proved to be a challenging one for the Los Angeles Lakers as they navigated through injuries and inconsistent performances. Despite the adversity, LeBron James continued to shine, leading the team in scoring with an impressive average of 30.3 points per game. Anthony Davis also made significant contributions with 23.2 points per game, showcasing his skills as a dynamic scorer.

Unfortunately, the Lakers struggled to find consistency throughout the regular season, finishing with a disappointing 33-49 record and falling short of a playoff berth. Despite their best efforts, injuries and roster adjustments hampered their ability to compete at the highest level.

2022-23 NBA Season

1. LeBron James - 28.9 PPG

2. Anthony Davis - 25.9 PPG

The 2022-23 NBA season was a rollercoaster ride for the Los Angeles Lakers as they battled through injuries and fierce competition in the Western Conference. Led by LeBron James, who averaged an impressive 28.9 points per game, and Anthony Davis, who contributed 25.9 points per game, the Lakers fought hard to secure a playoff spot.

Despite facing adversity, the Lakers finished the regular season with a 43-39 record, earning the 7th seed through the play-in tournament. In the playoffs, they faced tough competition, eventually meeting the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals. However, their journey was cut short as they were defeated by the eventual champions in a hard-fought series.

Overall Conclusion

LeBron James has undeniably left an indelible mark on the basketball world, showcasing dominance and excellence on the court throughout his illustrious career. Over 20 NBA seasons, LeBron led his team in scoring in 19 of them, highlighting his ability to consistently and effectively put up points. His legacy as one of the greatest scorers of all time has been further solidified by surpassing the 40,000-point mark, becoming the only player in league history to achieve this feat.

Throughout his journey, LeBron has had the privilege of playing alongside talented teammates who complemented his game and contributed to the success of their teams. Players like Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, and Dwyane Wade stood out as some of LeBron's best scoring partners, showcasing their ability to put up points and make significant impacts on the court. Their chemistry and teamwork were instrumental in achieving remarkable accomplishments throughout LeBron's career.

This article first appeared on Fadeaway World and was syndicated with permission.

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