Lakers superstar LeBron James is on the verge of yet another historic milestone as he approaches Pacers legend Reggie Miller on the NBA's all-time three-pointers list. With 2,482 career three-pointers to his name, James needs just 78 more to surpass Miller's mark of 2,560 – a feat that could be accomplished this season.
This milestone will highlight one of the most remarkable shooting transformations in NBA history. James, once maligned for his jump-shooting abilities early in his career, has evolved into a legitimate threat from downtown. While his career 34.9% accuracy from beyond the arc might not jump off the stat sheet, it doesn't tell the full story of his development into one of the game's most feared perimeter threats.
Miller, whose 2,560 threes came at a more accurate 39.5%, revolutionized the game during an era when the three-point shot was still viewed as a complementary weapon. The Pacers icon terrorized defenses, staying in perpetual motion, utilizing screens and his notorious leg kick to create space for his lightning-quick release from downtown.
Miller built his Hall of Fame career around accurate three-point shooting, while James developed his long-range game to complement his already devastating drive-and-dish arsenal. James's shooting evolution mirrors the NBA's transformation into a perimeter-oriented league.
As James closes in on Miller's mark, it's worth noting that their impact on the game extends beyond just raw numbers. Miller's sharpshooting helped usher in the modern era of basketball, while James's transformation into an elite three-point threat exemplifies how the game has evolved.
With the Lakers pushing for playoff position and James showing no signs of slowing down, Miller's No. 6 spot on the all-time list appears to be living on borrowed time. When James eventually passes Miller, it will be another testament to his unprecedented longevity and ability to evolve in a constantly changing game.
Stats at a Glance:
- Reggie Miller: 2,560 career three-pointers (39.5%)
- LeBron James: 2,482 career three-pointers (34.6%)
- Threes needed to pass Miller: 78
