A four-time NBA MVP and 18-time All-Star, James had 10 rebounds and nine assists. He scored 16 points in the second quarter, 13 points in the third quarter, and 16 points in the fourth quarter. James started the game in his ninth place averaging 27.8 points.
The Hawks (17-19) blew away a 15-point lead, but with 10:50 remaining, Aaron Holliday’s 3-pointer restored the lead to 101-100. James hit his 3 from the right side to make him 103-101 and Los Angeles couldn’t lose again. The Lakers (15-21) took a straight 3 from James and he led 108-105 before the Hawks called a timeout.
The Lakers have lost nine of their last 13 games, but lead 120-113 on James’ three-point play with 2:18 remaining. Many in the crowd rose to their feet when John Collins scored his sixth foul and went down on the baseline hitting his layup. He hit his throw in the free, came back on the next possession and reversed his layup at the baseline to get the crowd back on their feet again.
Los Angeles were never threatened again, leading 126-119 on a Thomas Bryant layup with 55 seconds remaining. James went 130-121 with two free throws and the crowd chanted “MVP! MVP!”
James’ previous season high was 39 points on November 26 in San Antonio.
After the televised interview, James left the court to sign the rapper’s 2 Chainz jersey before leaving for another standing ovation.