Milestones to Watch in the 2024-25 NBA Season: The LeBron James and Stephen Curry Showdown
As the 2024-25 NBA season tips off, the stage is set for what might be one of the most historic seasons in recent memory. Two of the league’s most iconic superstars, LeBron James and Stephen Curry, are poised to rewrite the history books once again. Both legends, now in the twilight of their careers, are chasing records that could further solidify their legacies as all-time greats. However, with age catching up and younger talents hungry for their throne, the question remains: will this be their final lap of greatness?
LeBron James: The Final Chapter?
At 39 years old, LeBron James is entering his 22nd season in the NBA. His longevity and sustained excellence are nothing short of miraculous, yet his pursuit of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s record for the most points scored in NBA history is one of the most talked-about milestones of the season. LeBron surpassed Kareem in the 2022-23 season, but every bucket he makes from here adds to a record that could be unbreakable for decades.
However, 2024-25 presents even more intrigue. LeBron is within striking distance of becoming the first player in NBA history to reach 40,000 career points—a milestone that many thought was unattainable. If achieved, it would put him in a league of his own, making it almost impossible for future generations to catch up.
But here’s where the controversy kicks in: Can LeBron still dominate the league at this stage of his career? As age catches up, the physical demands of leading a team could begin to take their toll. His 2023-24 season was marked by injuries, and many critics believe that his pursuit of individual records may be coming at the expense of team success. Some argue that LeBron should focus on transitioning into a mentor role rather than chasing personal glory. However, if we know anything about “The King,” it’s that he won’t back down from any challenge.
Stephen Curry: The Greatest Shooter Ever—But Is It Enough?
While LeBron is chasing scoring records, Stephen Curry, 36, continues to break records of his own. Widely regarded as the greatest shooter in NBA history, Curry has redefined how the game is played. His ability to sink deep threes with ease has revolutionized basketball strategy across all levels of play.
But in 2024-25, Curry is on the cusp of breaking one of the most prestigious records for shooters: **4,000 career three-pointers.** He’s already the all-time leader in made threes, surpassing Ray Allen in 2021, but reaching 4,000 would elevate his status to untouchable heights.
Here’s the kicker, though: While Curry’s shooting prowess is unparalleled, skeptics question whether his legacy is on the same level as LeBron’s. Despite having four championships to his name, Curry has yet to prove that he can consistently carry a team in the same way LeBron has throughout his career. Critics argue that Curry’s reliance on surrounding talent, especially the Golden State Warriors’ historically stacked roster, diminishes his individual greatness. If the Warriors falter this season, the narrative that Curry cannot lead a team to glory without elite help could gain traction.
The Legacy Debate: LeBron vs. Curry
While both LeBron and Curry are chasing different records, the underlying narrative of the 2024-25 season could revolve around their legacies. Who will go down as the more impactful player? LeBron, with his blend of scoring, playmaking, and longevity, or Curry, whose influence on the modern game of basketball is undeniable?
Some argue that LeBron’s versatility and sustained dominance over two decades make him the clear choice. He’s a four-time MVP, a four-time champion, and his all-around game has evolved to meet the needs of whatever team he’s played for. On the other hand, Curry’s revolutionary impact on how the game is played—particularly with the rise of three-point shooting—may make him more influential in shaping the future of basketball.
As the 2024-25 season progresses, the milestones each player achieves will add fuel to this debate. LeBron reaching 40,000 points would be a once-in-a-lifetime achievement, but Curry crossing the 4,000 three-pointers mark could be just as iconic in its own right. The real question is: Which legacy will resonate more with future generations?
The Rivalry That Never Was
Interestingly, LeBron and Curry have never had a traditional one-on-one rivalry, yet their careers are forever linked. Between 2015 and 2018, the two faced off in four straight NBA Finals, with Curry’s Warriors winning three of them. However, LeBron’s victory in the 2016 Finals, where he led the Cleveland Cavaliers to overcome a 3-1 deficit, remains one of the greatest accomplishments in sports history. That triumph marked a turning point in the legacy debate, but Curry’s return to championship glory in 2022 reignited the conversation.
As both players chase milestones in 2024-25, fans will inevitably compare their achievements and legacies. But here’s the truth: despite the records, championships, and MVPs, the defining narrative of their careers might come down to a simple question: Who changed the game more?
Conclusion: The Last Dance for LeBron and Curry?
The 2024-25 NBA season could be the last time we see LeBron James and Stephen Curry playing at an elite level. As they inch closer to retirement, every game, every milestone becomes more significant. Whether it’s LeBron chasing 40,000 career points or Curry aiming for 4,000 made three-pointers, the season is filled with history in the making. But the deeper question of which player leaves a more indelible mark on basketball will continue to spark debate long after both have hung up their sneakers.
As fans, all we can do is sit back and appreciate the greatness that we’re witnessing. But in the battle of legacies, who comes out on top? LeBron’s sheer dominance or Curry’s revolutionary shooting? That’s a debate that will continue to rage, with the 2024-25 season as its battleground.