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Lakers’ LeBron James to Miss 18th Game, Ending 21-Year All-NBA Streak

LeBron James’ historic run of All-NBA selections has officially come to an end. James was ruled out of Tuesday night’s 136–108 loss to the San Antonio Spurs, marking his 18th missed game of the season, making him ineligible for postseason awards under the NBA’s 65-game minimum.

The absence snapped an unprecedented 21-season streak of All-NBA honors, one of the most remarkable records in league history. James’ streak began with an All-NBA Second Team selection in 2005 and extended through last season, spanning multiple eras, teammates, and styles of play. Under current league rules, players must appear in at least 65 regular-season games to qualify for All-NBA and other major awards.

The Los Angeles Lakers confirmed that James will continue to manage arthritis in his left foot, prompting the decision to sit him out. The Lakers were severely shorthanded against San Antonio, with Luka Dončić (left hamstring strain), Austin Reaves (left calf injury management), Marcus Smart (right ankle soreness), and Deandre Ayton (right knee soreness) also sidelined.

Now in his 23rd NBA season, James, who turned 41 in December, is averaging 21.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 6.8 assists. He had appeared in 17 consecutive games prior to being ruled out, logging nearly 36 minutes in Monday’s loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite missing time earlier this season due to a sciatic nerve irritation and sitting out some back-to-backs, James was still named an All-Star for a record 22nd consecutive year, underscoring the longevity and consistency of a career that continues to defy precedent, even as one historic streak comes to a close.

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