LeBron James and the Challenge of Maintaining His Historic Streak in the NBA
In a crucial moment of the season, LeBron James, the player who has already made history by extending his career for 23 seasons, faces a new challenge. The NBA legend seeks to maintain a double-digit scoring streak that has lasted for 1,295 games, spanning almost 18 years.
During a recent game, James made his sixth shot of the game, the third to go in, thus securing his eleventh point and, with it, the continuation of his impressive streak.
In addition to his scoring streak, James seeks to preserve another notable record: he has been selected for an All-NBA team for 21 consecutive seasons, an unprecedented record. This feat is even more remarkable considering that, in that time, there have been four presidents of the United States.
James dominates this category, also holding the record for most selections on the All-NBA First Team, with 13, surpassing legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Tim Duncan, and Kobe Bryant, who share 15 selections.
However, maintaining this streak has become more complicated due to a change in the requirements for eligibility. Now, players must participate in at least 65 games during the regular season to be considered for an All-NBA spot.
After missing the first 14 games due to health issues, James is in a situation where he can only miss three more games to remain eligible for All-NBA.
With the Lakers’ schedule including several back-to-back games, James’ availability becomes crucial. Although his agent, Rich Paul, has not discussed James’ chances of making All-NBA this season, he has expressed that, ideally, James should rest in some games.
The decision on James’ participation in the games will be made by a team that includes the player himself, coach JJ Redick, athletic trainer Mike Mancias, and Lakers’ director of performance and health, Dr. Leroy Sims.
For James, playing in 65 of the last 68 Lakers games would be a remarkable achievement. Furthermore, performing at a level that keeps him among the top 15 players in the NBA, at the age of 41, would be even more impressive.
