In his 22nd season in the NBA, LeBron James might finally be facing ‘Father Time,’ or at least recent statistics suggest as much.
During a 109-80 defeat to the Timberwolves on Monday night, LeBron managed to score only 10 points, shooting 4-of-16 from the field. In addition, the 39-year-old recorded six turnovers, finishing the contest with a plus/minus rating of -28.
Nevertheless, LeBron has maintained his remarkable streak of scoring 10 or more points in consecutive games, bringing his tally to 1,243 games (from January 6, 2007, to the present). To highlight the significance of this achievement, the next highest on the list is Michael Jordan, who achieved this in merely 866 games (from March 25, 1986, to December 26, 2001).
LeBron James hits the free throw to preserve his 10-point-game streak with 8:51 remaining in the 4th quarter
He went on to miss the 2nd free throw and the next jumper before being substituted for the remainder of the game. pic.twitter.com/NN6xSMK1pe— MrBuckBuck (@MrBuckBuckNBA) December 3, 2024
For context, the last occasion LeBron did not score at least 10 points was on January 5, 2007, against the Milwaukee Bucks, where he finished with just eight points on 3-of-13 shooting in a 95-86 win for the Cavaliers.
Notably, the Cavs celebrated that victory during the ’07-08 season, and LeBron also contributed nine assists with only two turnovers. Given the circumstances, his recent performance in Minnesota may be remembered as one of the worst of his career (excluding his rookie season).
Throughout his extensive career, LeBron has achieved virtually every milestone imaginable, holding the title of the NBA’s all-time leading scorer while averaging 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 7.4 assists, and 1.5 steals since 2003.
However, it is crucial to note that as he approaches his 40th birthday, LeBron is currently experiencing a shooting slump that has raised concerns among fans. Over the past four games, he has failed to make a three-pointer (going 0-for-19), having missed his last 24 attempts from beyond the arc since November 26.
LeBron just missed his 24th three in a row… this time an airball.
What is happening?!? pic.twitter.com/rFfc8oZQEV
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) December 3, 2024
It’s worth mentioning that if LeBron misses his next three-point shot, he will tie an NBA record for the most consecutive missed 3’s (regular season), currently held by Grant Williams with 25 (2019-2020).
Furthermore, in his last six games, LeBron has shot under 45% from the field every time, averaging only 16.8 points during this stretch.
This inconsistency is troubling, as LeBron has not faced such a lengthy slump of shooting under 45% in six consecutive games since his rookie season at the age of 18.
Ultimately, while many believe LeBron will rebound from this slump, fans are understandably starting to express their worries about the ‘Kid from Akron,’ now the oldest player in the NBA.
This LeBron slump doesn’t feel right… It’s making me feel something… idk might have to call in sick tomorrow because I just don’t feel right knowing that LeBron is playing like this… @KingJames I got your back forever and always 🐐 pic.twitter.com/xlME7SKDC1
— Bryant (@bryantintown) December 3, 2024
Regardless of how much LeBron has showcased his longevity and consistency over the years, the day will come when ‘Father Time’ catches up to him, and fans are hoping that moment is still a season or two away… though there are hints that it may be starting to arrive.
Image Source: LeBron James @ Instagram
