The LeBron James era in the NBA is going through one of its most delicate moments. At 41 years old, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar is one game away from being ineligible for the season’s individual awards, an unprecedented situation for a player who has marked an entire generation of professional basketball.
LeBron is coming off an outstanding performance against the New Orleans Pelicans, where he scored 30 points in 33 minutes, but was not available for the next game against the San Antonio Spurs. The injury was announced approximately 90 minutes before the game, when the team informed that the player has arthritis in his left foot and sciatica, ailments that affect his continuity during the season.
Health, calendar and rules
Coach JJ Redick explained that the decision was directly related to the player’s physical response after games.
He noted that LeBron James often experiences increased pain the day after playing, making it difficult for him to participate in back-to-back games.
In the current calendar context, the coaching staff has opted to prioritize the veteran’s health, even if it means losing him in key matches.
This season, LeBron James had already missed 14 consecutive games at the start of the season.
This is due to problems Buzzy related to sciatica, which affects the lower back and leg.
Since his return, he has not managed to play two games in a row.
In a clear sign of the physical limitations he faces after more than two decades in the league.
The picture is further complicated by the 65-game rule.
Implemented by the NBA to determine eligibility for MVP, All-NBA, Defensive Player of the Year and other individual awards.
After missing the game against San Antonio, LeBron James has now missed 17 games.
This means that one more absence would automatically leave him out of any seasonal awards.
Unprecedented legacy and wear and tear of time
Since his return, he has not been able to play two games in a row
QuéOnnda.com
This scenario is especially significant when you consider that LeBron James has been selected to an All-NBA team in 21 consecutive seasons, an all-time record.
In the previous season, he played 70 games, was selected to the All-NBA Second Team and finished sixth in the MVP voting, with averages of 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists.
In the current season, his production has dropped to 21.7 points, 5.4 rebounds and 6.8 assists, figures that are still remarkable, but reflect the impact of physical wear and tear.
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