How Many Times Has LeBron James Been Swept? Lakers Star Faces Rare Sweep by Nuggets

LeBron James has done a whole lot of winning and not much losing in his NBA career. Since being selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft, James has been a mainstay in the NBA’s postseason. Over his 21 years in the league, he’s missed the playoffs only four times, two of which came in his rookie and sophomore seasons. When James does make the playoffs, he usually goes on competitive and deep runs, too, so 2024 is a bit of an anomaly. And if being at risk of losing to the Nuggets in the first round wasn’t enough, his Lakers enter Game 4 of the series at risk of being swept. It’s not a position James has been in many times before. So, how many times has LeBron James been swept?

How Many Times Has LeBron James Been Swept?

James has been swept three times in his NBA career. In 2007, James led the Cavaliers to the NBA Finals for the first time in his career, but Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili, and Tim Duncan were too much to handle, leading San Antonio to a 4-0 series win to sweep Cleveland. James and the Cavaliers were swept in the NBA Finals again in 2018, this time by Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, and the Warriors. James was swept for the third time in his career in 2023 when the Lakers fell to the Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals. In total, James has played 54 playoff series, 41 of which have ended in victories for his team.

CBS Sports | MSN | James has been swept three times in his NBA career.

LeBron James’ Championship Success

Despite these sweeps, James has a remarkable record of success in the playoffs. He is a four-time NBA champion, with Finals MVP awards for each title. James has won championships with every team he’s played for. His first two titles came with the Miami Heat in 2012 and 2013. In 2016, he famously led the Cavaliers to a historic 3-1 comeback against the Warriors, ending Cleveland’s 52-year championship drought. James secured his fourth ring with the Lakers in 2020. His ten trips to the NBA Finals, including an impressive eight consecutive appearances from 2010 to 2018, place him among the greats, with only Celtics legends Sam Jones and Bill Russell having more Finals appearances.

LeBron James’ Career Playoff Stats

LeBron James’ playoff statistics further cement his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history. He averages 28.4 points per game, 9.0 rebounds, and 7.2 assists. His defensive contributions include 1.7 steals and 1.0 blocks per game. James maintains a field goal percentage of 49.6%, with a 33.2% success rate from beyond the arc and a 74.0% free throw shooting percentage. These numbers highlight his all-around capabilities and his impact on every aspect of the game.

Sporting News | MSN | LeBron James’ playoff statistics further cement his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.

LeBron James’ career is defined by his resilience and consistent performance. While the instances of being swept are rare, they underscore the competitive nature of the playoffs and the caliber of opponents he has faced. Despite these setbacks, his numerous achievements and statistics reflect his status as an enduring force in the NBA.