LeBron James Makes History
On November 18, LeBron James made history once more by participating in his 23rd NBA season, a first for any player. Midway through the third quarter of the game against the Utah Jazz, James demonstrated his enduring skill by connecting on a basket that would contribute to his ongoing double-digit scoring streak.
Remarkable Scoring Streak
Positioned near the Crypto.com Arena logo, James passed to Luka Doncic before maneuvering past Utah’s Lauri Markkanen to score a layup, boosting his points to 11. This shot marked his sixth attempt of the game and helped him maintain a remarkable streak of scoring in double figures for 1,294 consecutive games, a feat that spans nearly 18 years.
All-NBA Team Streak at Risk
James’ ongoing legacy also includes a less publicized achievement that could be at risk this season: his streak of being selected to the All-NBA team for 21 consecutive years, beginning after his second season in the league. Throughout this period, he has outlasted four U.S. presidents and amassed 13 selections to the All-NBA First Team, which significantly surpasses those of icons like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Tim Duncan, and Kobe Bryant, all of whom have 15 total selections.
Challenges Ahead
The criteria for these prestigious accolades have evolved as well; for instance, the All-NBA award has transitioned from a simple plaque to a crystal trophy, with ballot structures also changing. The league recently revamped eligibility requirements, mandating players participate in a minimum of 65 games to qualify for postseason awards, a rule stemming from diminishing fan interest in regular-season games due to player absences. This presents a looming challenge for James this season, especially as he deals with the aftermath of missing the initial 14 games due to a nerve issue impacting his lower back and leg.
Upcoming Games and Strategy
As the Lakers gear up for their 17th game against the LA Clippers, James faces a tight window: he can afford to miss no more than three games to maintain his All-NBA eligibility. The Lakers’ schedule still includes 11 back-to-backs, complicating matters further. His agent, Rich Paul, suggests that although they haven’t discussed James’ chances for this season’s All-NBA team, James should ideally avoid playing both games in back-to-back sets, considering his age.
Prioritizing Health and Legacy
Rich Paul indicates that while James wishes to maintain his streak, he should prioritize rest. In contrast, teams typically manage veteran players’ health based on injury history rather than age, a distinction evident in recent practices. However, James has historically positioned himself differently, emphasizing leadership through availability while hoping to play every game this season, a feat he attempted last year but abandoned partway through.
Looking Ahead
This year, as James contemplates the possibility that this might be his last season, he may feel a heightened obligation to perform in every game, turning what could be a farewell tour into a determination to solidify his legacy. Discussions involving James, his trainers, and team health professionals will determine how many games he ultimately plays. Successfully competing in enough games – and at a high level – to earn recognition among the league’s elite players at 41 years of age would be remarkable.
However, many agree that ultimately, capturing another championship title could be the most valuable addition to his already outstanding career résumé, a move beneficial for both his legacy and the Lakers’ aspirations for a playoff run this season.
