Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James will not play in Wednesday’s matchup against the San Antonio Spurs because of arthritis in his left foot. This injury causes James to fall short of the minimum games required for All-NBA team eligibility and other league awards this season, ending his record streak.
James Falls Below Eligibility Threshold for Awards and Honors
This upcoming game will mark the 18th time James has missed out of the season’s schedule, leaving him with only 35 games played so far. The NBA requires players to appear in at least 65 games to qualify for honors such as All-NBA selections, and James will not meet that benchmark.
Having been named to an All-NBA team for an unprecedented 21 consecutive seasons, this season will be the first time since his career began that James is ineligible due to missed games.
James’ Current Season Performance and Historical Context
At 41 years old, James continues to produce solid numbers this season, averaging 21.8 points, 6.9 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game. He earned second-team All-NBA honors last year, with his last first-team recognition coming during the 2019-20 campaign.
Additional Lakers and Spurs Player Updates for Upcoming Game
The upcoming game features the San Antonio Spurs, ranked second in the Western Conference, led by phenom Victor Wembanyama, facing the Lakers, currently fifth in the West, anchored in part by Rui Hachimura.
Other Lakers players are also sidelined, including guards Austin Reaves (left calf) and Marcus Smart (right ankle), who will not suit up for Wednesday’s contest. Center Deandre Ayton remains questionable due to a right knee issue.
Meanwhile, Spurs star Luka Doncic, leading the league with a 32.8 points per game average, will miss his third consecutive game with a left hamstring injury but hopes to participate in the upcoming All-Star Game.
Implications of James’ Absence and Future Outlook
LeBron James missing significant time this season marks a major turning point in NBA history, given his longstanding dominance and consistency in All-NBA honors. This development not only affects the Lakers’ hopes but also signals a changing landscape in the league as rising stars like Wembanyama continue to emerge.
As the Lakers navigate these injuries, the team’s depth will be tested, and fans will watch closely to see how James recovers and if he can return to form in the remaining part of the season.
WEMBY, SPURS GO FOR FIVE STRAIGHT 🍿
Victor Wembanyama and the #2 in West Spurs aim to stay hot as they visit Rui Hachimura and the #5 in West Lakers!
10:30pm/et • NBA TV pic.twitter.com/bDvnqDCmwK
— NBA (@NBA) February 10, 2026
LeBron James will miss his 18th game of the season Tuesday night meaning he is no longer eligible for NBA season awards.
His 21-year All-NBA streak comes to an end. pic.twitter.com/AC72BrBNmK
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) February 10, 2026
