The Lakers opened against the Warriors and led 59-53 in the first half.
James, who had 18 points, seven rebounds and two assists on 7-of-10 shooting from mid-range, has scored 465 points in 18 season openers in his career, surpassing Carl Malone (463) as the all-time first.
Jordan finished third with a total of 431 points in 14 career openers.