There are so many stats and numbers that don’t just show the longevity of LeBron James. They also show how he’s been remarkably productive for such a lengthy period of time. Perhaps nothing better shows that than the fact that LeBron James has made an All-NBA team for 20 straight seasons. Unfortunately, after what happened on Saturday, that streak is in jeopardy.
LeBron James’ Incredible 20-Year Streak In Jeopardy Of Ending
Suffered Groin Injury On Saturday
There was a highly-anticipated game on Saturday with the Los Angeles Lakers heading on the road to take on the Boston Celtics. The Celtics are the reigning NBA champions. Meanwhile, the Lakers have been playing like contenders, especially after acquiring superstar Luka Doncic.
The Lakers battled valiantly, but in the end, they fell short by the score of 111-101. LA had more concerning matters to deal with though. James was forced to leave the game about midway through the fourth quarter with a left groin injury.
According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, the injury could force the 40-year-old James out of action “for weeks”. That would be a tough break for a Lakers team that had won eight straight prior to Saturday.
Of course, there is not yet a definitive timetable on how long James could be out, as further testing needs to be done. With the NBA now in their second year of a 65-games played minimum to be eligible for certain honors and awards, an All-NBA appearance for James may not be possible if forced to miss numerous games.
LeBron James Has Made An All-NBA Team In 20 Straight Seasons
The Lakers have played in 62 games so far on the season, giving them 20 regular season contests left. James has appeared in 58 of them, therefore only missing four. This season, he is averaging 25.0 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 8.5 assists. While he seemed to be in great shape to easily surpass 65 games played, it is a little less clear now.
The 22-year veteran needs to appear in seven of LA’s final 20 outings to reach 65. That means he can miss no more than 13.
Taking a look at the Lakers schedule, their next 14 games run through April 3. That is 25 days from now, or slightly more than 3.5 weeks. James would need to return at least by then to remain All-NBA eligible. Of course, it would also help if he didn’t miss any more games once he were to return.
Again, without a return timetable, this is just speculating. It would be a shame though if a somewhat late-season injury ended James’ streak of making an All-NBA team. The first overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft has made one every season except his rookie year of 2003-04. That means that James has done so for 20 straight years. He has made the first team 13 times, second team on three instances, and third team on four occasions.
The Lakers meanwhile look like they will be trekking on without James. For how long, that answer is not yet clear. Their next game is Monday on the road against the Brooklyn Nets.
Photo credit: © Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
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