Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James is facing a new obstacle in his bid to extend an unprecedented run of 21 consecutive All-NBA selections. Because the NBA now demands that award candidates appear in at least 65 regular-season games, the 41-year-old superstar can miss only three of Los Angeles’ remaining 68 contests to stay eligible.
Missed Time Creates a Tight Window
James did not play in the Lakers’ first 14 games while treating sciatica that affected his lower back and right side. He returned on Nov. 18, scoring 11 points against the Utah Jazz to keep another milestone alive—his streak of 1,294 straight double-digit scoring games, a span of nearly 18 years.
The Lakers meet the LA Clippers on Tuesday for their 17th game, which leaves exactly 65 games on the schedule. To qualify for postseason awards, James must suit up for at least 65 of those outings, even though the club still has 11 back-to-back sets to navigate.
Agent, Coach Weigh In
Rich Paul, James’ longtime friend and agent, told ESPN he has not spoken with the four-time champion about All-NBA goals this season. “At 41 years of age, I hope he is not playing back-to-backs,” Paul said, adding that skipping too many games would end the streak.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick—who voted James onto the All-NBA Third Team last season while working for ESPN—said the topic has not surfaced in their private discussions. Redick acknowledged the historical value of All-NBA honors but stressed that night-to-night availability will be decided by James, the team’s medical staff and longtime trainer Mike Mancias.
Decades of Recognition at Stake
James earned his first All-NBA nod after his second season and has not missed the list since, amassing a record 13 First-Team appearances. Only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Tim Duncan and Kobe Bryant come close, each with 15 total selections.
The NBA’s revamped voting format is now positionless, but the new participation threshold could end the league’s longest active awards streak—one that has outlasted four U.S. presidents and several changes to the trophy itself.
James has often spoken about the importance of being available, once aiming to play all 82 games in a season—something he has accomplished only in 2017-18. Whether he pursues every remaining game this year or accepts occasional rest to preserve his legs for a potential title run may determine whether the 22-year All-NBA dream survives.
Source: ESPN
