The 2025 NBA playoffs shifted to Minnesota’s Target Center Friday night with the Western Conference first-round series tied 1–1 between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves. 

After splitting the first two games in Los Angeles, both clubs entered Game 3 under a defensive microscope, each determined to seize home-court advantage. 

Amid that tense backdrop, ESPN reporter Dave McMenamin revealed on X that Friday marked the 100th time LeBron James has recorded a 20-point half in a playoff game. 

McMenamin also noted that it came in his 290th career postseason appearance, the most by any player in NBA history, and that James has never missed a single playoff game since his debut with Cleveland in April 2006.

“100th career 20-point playoff half for the King,” posted the Lakers. 

Friday’s Game 3 carries high stakes in Minnesota. 

The Timberwolves, who finished the regular season 49–33, hoped to lean on the physical style of play that fueled their lopsided Game 1 win. 

Lakers head coach JJ Redick, stung by his team’s sluggish play in Game 2, demanded urgency and sharper defensive rotations. 

James answered that call, pouring in 22 first-half points to deliver the century-mark half and stake L.A. to an early lead.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James.

Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

James’ unbroken run of playoff availability is as remarkable as his scoring feats. 

In fact, no player in NBA history has played in more postseason games (289) nor has more postseason minutes (11,934). 

This season, on March 4, James also became the first player to surpass 50,000 career points across the regular season and playoffs. 

At age 40, his combination of peak conditioning and durability continues to defy expectations.