LeBron James Passes Robert Parish for Most Regular-Season Games; Sacramento Faces New Injuries; Utah Extends Bez Mbeng’s Stay
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LOS ANGELES — LeBron James appeared in the 1,612th regular-season game of his career on Saturday, surpassing Hall of Fame center Robert Parish for the NBA record.
The 39-year-old forward said the milestone was never a specific target. “It just kind of happened. It was not on the list of things that I wanted to accomplish,” James told reporters, according to the Associated Press. He added that his focus remains on staying available: “I’ve always prided myself on trying to be as available as possible … keeping my body intact.”
Kings Navigate Wins and Health Concerns
Sacramento has taken five of its last eight games, including a weekend victory over the Brooklyn Nets, but the roster absorbed two setbacks. Rookie guard Nique Clifford exited the fourth quarter after twisting an ankle, and starting point guard Killian Hayes left with a toe injury.
“Man, it sucks, especially for the young guys because you want them to be out there playing,” veteran forward DeMar DeRozan said, per the Sacramento Bee. “Hopefully, it’s nothing too serious.”
Jazz Issue Second 10-Day Contract to Bez Mbeng
The Utah Jazz signed guard Bez Mbeng to a second 10-day deal after a solid first stint. The former Yale standout has appeared in five games (one start), averaging 4.8 points, 4.2 assists, 4.0 rebounds and 1.6 steals.
Mbeng logged 45 minutes against Philadelphia over the weekend, finishing with 13 points, seven assists and six rebounds. A three-time Ivy League Defensive Player of the Year, he also earned the conference’s overall Player of the Year honor in his final collegiate season. Utah must convert his deal to a standard contract if it chooses to retain him once the current 10-day agreement expires.
Source: Hoops Wire
