LeBron James, a paragon of consistency throughout his remarkable 21-year NBA career, may be facing the inevitable effects of Father Time, despite being the league’s all-time leading scorer.
In the recent blowout loss of the Los Angeles Lakers to the Phoenix Suns, James struggled, contributing only 10 points on 3-of-11 field goals and registering a -25 during his time on the court. It’s noteworthy that four of those seven points were earned from free throws, highlighting the potential for him to finish the game with fewer than 10 points, given his historical performance at the free-throw line.
Had James not made those free throws, the basketball community might have witnessed the conclusion of one of his most impressive records on January 11, 2024. By reaching at least 10 points, James extended his streak of double-digit scoring games to an astonishing 1,186 games. This streak dates back to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 96-91 victory over the New Jersey Nets on January 6, 2007, where he scored 19 points.
The last instance of James finishing in single digits occurred during the Cavaliers’ 95-86 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on January 5, 2007, where he managed just eight points in 43 minutes. This night stands as one of the rare eight occasions throughout his illustrious career where James was held to single-digit points, excluding postseason performances.
A rough start to 2024
For comparison, James had another uncharacteristically low-scoring game earlier this season, going 6-for-18 from the field and finishing with 12 points against the Miami Heat. Indeed, James has had a difficult start to 2024, with his shooting splits regressing to 43/25/61.
Despite his recent dip, no player in history has come close to James’ 1,186 consecutive double-digit scoring games. Even Michael Jordan only managed 866 such games, which lasted from March 25, 1986 to December 26, 2001.
There are bookmakers in Las Vegas that have invested in James’ never-ending streak.
The question remains, will we ever see the day when “The King” finishes a regular season game in single digits? The race is on.
LeBron James tonight:
10 points
3-for-11 FG
0-for-4 3PT
9 assists
5 rebounds😳😳😳 pic.twitter.com/jC4Ytc3qoA
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) January 12, 2024
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